The city of Stoke-on-Trent has already started to celebrate its sporting opportunities, with international, national and local events to be held throughout the year. Poster printing and calendar printing will likely be used to make sure 2016 is as successful as possible.
An opening ceremony at Northwood Stadium was attended by in excess of 3,000 people. Dave Conway, the current leader of the city council, told the Stoke Sentinel:
“Hopefully this will bring people to the city, where they will get involved and also hopefully spend money. This will create interest everywhere. It really is going to be a great year and everyone is going to be encouraged to get involved in the different sports and activities we have here.”
The crowd was entertained by about 700 performers, many of whom had roots in the local community. A story was told to the spectators, composed of related themes of place and sport. There was a particular emphasis on England and the specific heritage of Stoke-on-Trent.
A variety of techniques were used to bring the European Union-backed event to life, including digital projection and film. However, dancing was also employed to add excitement, while sporting celebrities like Colin Jackson turned up. After a parade of people, the spectacle concluded with a firework display.