COUNCIL chiefs are hoping the Olympics will inspire residents to get fit and active.
Lichfield’s Sophie Capewell has been among the medal winners in Paris.
And now Staffordshire County Council is hoping the success of the Olympians will inspire others to get active.
Cllr Victoria Wilson, cabinet member for community and culture at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“We always see a spike in people trying to improve their health following any big sports events and with Staffordshire’s athletes doing so well, I’m sure these Olympic games will have the same affect.
“With so many opportunities available in the county, there has never been a better time to embrace a healthier lifestyle.
“So, whether you are looking to start a new fitness regime, join a sports club, or simply enjoy the outdoors more, you’ll find it in Staffordshire.
“Having good mental health is also really important and our scenic landscapes and our country parks can offer the perfect setting for mindful walks, meditation and reconnecting with nature.”
The legacy of sporting achievements and events can be hard to predict. For example, when England won the rugby world cup in 2003 loads of kids joined rugby clubs however in 2007 and when they were runners up the world had moved on and sales of rugby video games soared instead.
And after the 2012 Olympics in London the country decided it had had enough of joy and togetherness and feeling great about itself and embarked instead on a decade of self destruction and divisiveness and punishing the poorest in society.
So, tricky to guage.