By Jack Goodman
LOCAL OLYMPIC champions the Brownlee brothers will be bringing Christmas cheer to a North Leeds community.
Alistair and Jonathan Brownlee have won four Olympic triathlon medals between them in the past two Games – along with three world champion titles between 2009 and 2012.
The famous Yorkshire triathlete brothers will be in Horsforth to switch on the Christmas lights after being special guests at the switch on of the city centre Christmas lights on 10 November.
The event will take place on The Green in Horsforth on Saturday 3 December at 3.30pm, and is organised by Horsforth Town Council.
John Garvani, Horsforth Town Council chairman, said: “Having the Brownlee brothers coming to the event is a major boost.
“We’re expecting our biggest crowd ever – it’s proving to be exceptionally popular.”
The event will also include a performance by Horsforth-based All For One Choir, and Christmas carols with local schools.
Mr Garvani added: “We’re also expecting the Lord Mayor to attend – we invite him every year. We’ve also got Father Christmas coming.”
Horsforth Ward Councillor Chris Townsley was quick to praise the work of the Town Council on recognising the success of the local Olympic champions – and highlighted the positive effect it would have on the community.
He said: “Once again it’s recognition of the incredible success of the lads. It’s a good all-round feeling. They keep achieving!”
Councillor Townsley also highlighted the importance of having such successful local idols for young people in Horsforth.
He said: “If their achievements don’t encourage kids to follow suit and achieve, I’m not sure what will. Hopefully they’re motivating young people to follow in their tracks.
“They’re just down-to-earth guys, they’re not stand-offish or anything. They’re quite happy to engage with people and get involved in these kinds of events.
“They’re really well thought of, and rightly so – it’s right and proper to acknowledge their achievements like this.”
The event is supported by Horsforth businesses Holy Spokes, a bike workshop, and Aire Valley Tree Services Ltd.
Lyndon Smith, a business partner of Holy Spokes, echoed the thoughts of Councillor Townsley.
He said: “Those guys are not only good for their sport but they’re good role models as well.
“I’ve got young children and it’s good to have people like them. We need that.
“It’s all about the little things, everyone coming together to put on an event like this.”