OLYMPIC gold medallist Jonathan Edwards has given West Dunbartonshire Council a prestigious 'Inspire Mark' in recognition of its exciting plans for schools torch relays in June. Active Schools Manager, Andrew McKay joined Shona Robison, Commonwealth Games and Sport Minister, and Sir Craig Reedie International Olympic Committee to receive the award on behalf of the council.

Over 6,500 pupils and all 42 schools including Early Education Centres will be involved in torch relays from Wednesday June 6 to Friday June 8 in the lead up to the official Olympic Torch arriving in West Dunbartonshire on Saturday June 9. Secondary schools pupils will design and create Olympic torches for primary schools and selected torch bearers will deliver the specially designed torches to primary schools where pupils will take part in torch relays or compete in a special sports day to mark the occasion.

London 2012 Inspire programme recognises innovative and exceptional projects that are directly inspired by the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Andrew McKay said: "I am delighted to receive this award in recognition of my team's hard work and innovation to engage and involve our young people in the 2012 Olympic Games and mark what will be a great occasion.

"The Olympic Torch coming to West Dunbartonshire will be a wonderful event and it reaffirms our commitment to raise awareness of the benefits of leading an active life.

"Our torch relay project will encourage our pupils to participate in sport and get ready for the Games this summer."

Jonathan Edwards said: "With us now on the final stretch towards The Games, it is great to see the energy and enthusiasm amongst the people of Scotland, especially in projects like the Active Schools West Dunbartonshire Torch Relays that have been awarded the Inspire mark. This will undoubtedly leave a strong foundation on which Glasgow 2014 can build and help leave a lasting legacy for Scotland." Jim McElhill, Spokesperson for Environmental and Economic Development, added: "This is a wonderful achievement and I would like to congratulate Andrew and his team on receiving this award.

"I'm delighted the Olympic Torch will pass through West Dunbartonshire and I would urge residents to come and show your support on this momentous occasion."