COLUMN by South Cotswolds MP Roz Savage 

The Olympics left us feeling inspired, but the Paralympics now drawing to a close in Paris have been next level inspiration.

The dedication, perseverance and sheer grit required to succeed at the highest levels of sport are truly remarkable.

As a former competitive rower myself, I understand the challenges athletes face in pursuing their dreams – and I wasn’t having to contend with cerebral palsy like Daphne Schrager of Malmesbury, who has won silver in the Women's C1-3 3000m Individual Pursuit Cycling.

Hugest congratulations to Daphne!

Behind every great athlete is a team of supporters - coaches, family, friends and communities who believe in them.

This spirit of coming together to achieve shared goals is something we see throughout the South Cotswolds, not just in sport but in all aspects of community life.

I was thrilled to see that all three of Wiltshire’s best kept villages are in my constituency, with Ashton Keynes, Upper and Lower Seagry and Hankerton, coming top in the large, medium, and small village categories respectively, being judged on criteria which include tidiness, cleanliness, presentation, conservation and village community spirit.

These awards are about much more than just tidy streets and well-kept gardens.

They represent hours of volunteer work, neighbours collaborating on shared projects, and a collective commitment to making our corner of the world a little bit better. They are truly a testament to the pride our communities take in the places they call home.

Over the past couple of months, I've had the privilege of attending community events in towns and villages across the constituency including Tetbury, Kemble, Cirencester, Siddington, Stratton, South Cerney, Fairford, Somerford Keynes, Great Somerford and Malmesbury.

I’ve marvelled at the creativity on show at scarecrow trails, sat on steam engines, handed out trophies, and applauded local music bands, carnival floats, and gymnasts. 

At each one, I've been struck by the energy and enthusiasm of local residents coming together.

Whether it's a village fete, a community litter pick, or a fundraiser for the local school, these events showcase the very best of the South Cotswolds.

These events, large and small, are the lifeblood of our communities.

They bring people together, forge new friendships, and remind us of the deep connections we share with our neighbours and our local area.

Just as our Paralympians show us what can be achieved through determination and teamwork, our vibrant community life demonstrates the power of collective action.

As we look to the future, I'm confident that the South Cotswolds will continue to nurture both sporting champions and thriving communities.

By working together and supporting one another, there's no limit to what we can achieve.