Olympic champion backs drive to make Brent fitter and healthier

Linford Christie OBE speaks to residents about the importance of well-being

A former Olympic gold medal winner has backed the drive to make Brent a fitter, healthier, happier place.

Linford Christie OBE, who won gold in the 100m sprint at the 1992 Barcelona Games, was among the guests at a health and wellbeing event organised by Brent and NHS Brent last Friday (2).

More than 100 people from the council and NHS, along with representatives from a range of community groups, discussed and helped develop new ways to improve health awareness within the community, and boost the overall effectiveness of health provision in Brent.

Participants heard from a number of key note speakers, including Cllr Muhammed Butt, leader of Brent Council, and Simon Bowen, NHS Brent’s director of public health and regeneration, before they discussed the issues and ways forward.

Mr Christie also took part in a question and answer session covering his career and health and fitness.

He said: “As a former Olympian, I believe health and fitness are really important, so I was delighted to be asked to speak at this event. I hope it will help improve the health and fitness of local people in Brent.”

Cllr Butt added: “This event is a great way of harnessing the ideas of local people and getting their help in tackling health inequality for future generations.

“It makes me angry that where people live in the borough decides how long they live, and how healthy they are.

“The council and our partner, the NHS, are committed to improving the health and fitness of local people.”