South Cotswolds MP Rosalind Savage speaks about the Olympics and the riots after the Southport stabbing 

I am thrilled to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our UK’s athletes in the Paris 2024 Olympics, especially those from the South Cotswolds.

As a rower myself, I know the level of commitment and dedication it takes to reach such a level.

These individuals are truly inspiring - they embody the very essence of the Olympic spirit. 

So I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Tom McEwen, who has once again brought glory and a sense of positivity to our region.

Tom, along with his teammates Ros Canter (nominative determinism, surely!) and Laura Collett, successfully defended their Olympic gold medal in team eventing.

Their performance at the Chateau de Versailles was the absolute pinnacle of equestrian excellence.

Tom's clear round in the final stage amply demonstrated his skill, composure, and the strong partnership with his horse, JL Dublin. 

The upbeat and celebratory mood in Paris is in such a contrast to the awful, shocking and heart-breaking attack in Southport, and the thuggery and rioting that followed.

The bereaved families’ pain and grief is almost unimaginable, and I can only hope that they take some comfort from the resulting outpouring of love around the country. 

By contrast there is no excuse for the misguided anti-Muslim violence, with its attacks on police officers, peaceful places of worship and destruction of residents’ property.

Those responsible must face the full force of the law. 

There is such a contrast between these appalling events at home and the self sacrifice and magnificent human endeavour on display in Paris.

Tom, our local swimmer Alex Cohoon, and all their colleagues serve as beacons of inspiration for our community against the darkness we all witnessed this week. 

Our Olympians remind us of the power of dedication, hard work, and the pursuit of excellence.

As we celebrate their successes, let us also reflect on the values that the Olympics represent and are so needed here right now – unity, respect, and the relentless pursuit of being the best versions of ourselves.