Mary's Blog

It’s not quite over yet – the Paralympics are still to come – but I just need to say how proud it feels to be British after such a wonderful Olympic Games. I felt so uplifted, especially after the breathtaking closing ceremony – yet another fine celebration of Britain’s cultural influence on the World.

Triumphant Ennis after Heptathlon Gold

I never, ever thought I would become a “couch potato”, but my curiosity, then desire to watch ‘Mo’ and Jessica, mushroomed into a compulsive binge to consume as much BBC Olympic coverage of our athletes as possible. What excitement! What a feast! I don’t normally follow sporting events.

What a joy to witness the skill and sportsmanship of these and other athletes. From mountain biking, road racing, sailing, athletics, equestrian events; I was rooting for them all of the way! By the way, where did all those cheering and flag waving millions lining the roads come from?

The impact from the drama, excitement and pure pleasure on the British psyche has been phenomenal. What a powerful unifying force for our nation! Athletes of all creeds and colour striving for a common goal: to give their best for Great Britain, pumping patriotism to an all time high with it. Let’s hope we can harness all these positive vibes through these difficult economic times.

Hull’s Olympic boxing champion – Luke Campbell

Kingston-upon-Hull’s own Luke Campbell – gold medal bantam weight boxing Olympian – will receive further accolades when he returns home. What a hero!

Psychedelic Olympic Stadium

Hats off to Danny Boyle’s Olympic ceremonies. What proud moments so skillfully executed. I loved the psychedelic and special effect lighting in the closing ceremony. And did anyone spot the sudden appearance of a tightrope walker? Imagine the stress of performing that feat in time with the rest of the show. Timed to perfection.

John Lennon’s Imagine, as you have never seen it before

John Lennon’s Imagine was a touching nostalgic note too along with the Who and other pop bands… one of our strongest cultural exports. Britain’s lasting impression on the World. And where did the octopus spring from? Magic! The athletes seemed to be enjoying the free concert in the centre.

I was amazed that over seventy thousand volunteers participated in the Games and was glad to see their recognition heartily applauded. Their good nature and humour said it all.

Now it’s over to the Paralympics and then off to Rio. We wish them all the very best. Looking forward to it.