Sir Philip, who represented Britain at five consecutive Paralympics in the sport of wheelchair basketball, was joined in Bolton by London 2012 chairman Sebastian Coe in what will be the duo's last formal appearance in the North West before the start of the Olympics and Paralympics.

The pair discussed how Bolton and the rest of the UK could capitalise on the 2012 Games and agreed that schools would play a major part in ensuring the Olympic and Paralympic Games would have a lasting and sustainable legacy.

"I am passionate about promoting sports in schools," said Sir Philip.

"Sport should not be a bolt-on package and depend on resources.

"I am biased, but it should be the most important subject.

"I do believe the Games will leave a tremendous legacy and believe there will be tremendous sport in this country."


Sir Philip added that he was delighted to be back in Bolton and proud that it was one of seven towns in the North West that will be host an evening celebration during the Olympic Torch Relay next year.

"It is fabulous the Olympic Torch will come through Bolton," he said.

Coe, a double Olympic 1,500 metre champion, said: "It is all about the schools.

"It is how I came into sport and it is about making sure sport is vibrant and well resourced.

"The countdown to the Games is now in days so it is time to really start getting involved."

Coe also hailed Bolton's strong links with the London 2012 Games saying: "The birthplace of the mascots is in Bolton."

Coe was referring to the fact that according to the legend, the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic mascots Wenlock and Mandeville were created from two drops of molten-steel that came from the steelworks in Bolton that supplied thousands of tonnes of the metal for the Olympic Stadium in Stratford.

"I think when we look back, we will be able to say this was a defining moment, not just in sport but for the country," added Coe.

"If we expose young people to extraordinary things, we can really change their lives."

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