00:00From Olympic gold medals to Paralympic podiums, some of Britain's biggest sporting names are now united behind a shared ambition,
00:09bringing a future Olympic and Paralympic Games to the north of England.
00:13More than 40 Olympians, Paralympians and elite athletes have signed a joint statement supporting what's being described as the Great
00:21North Games vision.
00:23Among them are Dame Laura Kenny, Dame Sarah Storey and Steve Cram, alongside athletes from across the Liverpool City region,
00:30including Beth Tweddle, Bianca Walkden and Steve Parry.
00:34Organisers say this represents the most significant athlete backing yet for the idea, which is being developed by northern leaders
00:40united under the umbrella of the Great North.
00:43The proposal is currently being explored by government, which has confirmed an initial strategic assessment into whether a future Games
00:49in the north would be possible.
00:51That follows calls earlier this year from northern mayors and civic leaders for government to consider the long-term potential
00:57of hosting a Games across the region.
01:00Supporters say the concept would build on the legacy of London 2012, using existing and planned venues across northern cities.
01:07In their statement, athletes say a northern Games would be a national event designed to unite the country and showcase
01:12British sport on the world stage.
01:14They also argue the north has world-class venues, experienced organisers and a strong sporting culture, capable of delivering a
01:21major international event.
01:23One possible timeline being discussed is 20-40, though any bid remains at an early feasibility stage.
01:29One possible timeline being discussed is 20-40, though any bid remains at an early feasibility stage.
01:29One possible timeline being discussed is 20-40, though any bid remains at an early feasibility stage.
01:29One possible timeline being discussed is
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