INSPIRED by Team GB’s magnificent Rio performances, Alton’s sport fans put in a gold medal effort last Sunday afternoon.

A community event at the Olympic Sports Festival in Anstey Parkwas well attended with hundreds of visitors keen to try some new activities and speak to coaches and clubs about pursuing their own sporting dreams this year.

Rio Olympic fancy dress winners were: Pre-school – Alice Wilkinson, Under 8s – Wyatt Green, 9-16 – Tabatha Wildman. The Group Winner was Alton Gymnastics Club.

Zumba Dance Parties, run by Kate Sadler in the main arena, added a Rio flavour to the event Simon Chainey’s circus skills workshops and fire shows also impressed.

A children’s five-a-side football tournament, which was co-ordinated by Matt Northcott of CM-Sports, featured eight teams who ranged in age from 7-15 years playing to take home the Alton Community Cup by not simply scoring goals, but showing “great sportsmanship” and “team spirit”.

Ultimately, though, it was the Year 7 Reds who took the coveted cup, which was presented to them by town mayor Matthew Bayliss.

Mr Bayliss said: “On behalf of Alton Town Council, I would like to thank all of the sports clubs and organisations that attended the festival, without whom the event would not have been possible.

“I met many visitors who were feeling very inspired after watching the Olympics and were keen to take up a new sport or join a new local club.

“I would also like to thank all those who have worked hard behind the scenes

organising the event and assisting on the day.”

The event was organised by Alton Town Council, Alton Buckle, Alton College, Alton Community Association and East Hampshire District Council. Specsavers Opticians and Data Print helped fund the event.