Preparations underway for our own Olympics

I have been enjoying a few weeks off recently but as well as spending some time relaxing away with my family I have been closely following the success of Team's GB and Northern Ireland, and Team Ireland at the Olympics.

Whether you're into sport or not, the entire country seems to be glued to their televisions following the progress of our sports men and women as they exceed all expectations on what already appears to be the most successful Olympics for many years.

It is exciting to think that this time next year we will be hosting our very own 'Olympics' in the form of the third largest sporting event in the world, the World Police and Fire Games (WPFG). Taking place between the 1st and 10th of August, in Belfast, it promises to be one of the most spectacular events to ever come to Northern Ireland with the prospect of over 25,000 visitors and competitors from over 70 countries.

Preparations are well under way to facilitate the 66 sports across 41 venues and I want to pay tribute to the fantastic work of the World Police and Fire Games Company who have been tasked with the delivery of the Games.

Just like the Olympics, there are lots of opportunities for people to become involved by volunteering to assist in a range of activities to ensure that the WPFG is the very best, most successful and friendliest Games it can possibly be. I would encourage everyone, when volunteer registration opens in September, to consider becoming involved by signing up to assist and if you would like to find out how you can, just visit the WPFG website at www.2013wpfg.com

As chair of the WPFG Board I am really looking forward to the Games and the experience of our very own 'Olympics' right here on our doorstep.