World Police And Fire Games Begin

This year's World Police and Fire Games (WPFG) are to be officially opened today in Belfast.

The ceremony will mark the first time the event has been held in the United Kingdom.

With 6,700 international competitors having entered, the Games will be the largest sporting event ever to take place in Northern Ireland.

The 10-day competition will see 67 countries involved, with police officers, prison officers and firefighters from across the world competing in 56 different sports at 41 venues.

Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilín visited Belfast's King's Hall yesterday for a preview of the event.

"After all the hard work and organisation it is great that we are at the start-line of the 2013 World Police and Fire Games," she said.

"The ice hockey, cycling hill climb and handball are already underway and it is easy to see the pride and determination of all the participants. I am sure in the next 10 days we will witness great sporting moments and personal achievements. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has made this occasion possible; the staff of the venues, the officials of the organisation and the volunteers who will be working throughout the tournament."

The PSNI Pipe Band has composed and recorded music to be played at each medal ceremony during the Games. The piece is called 'Mary’s Air', after Olympic Gold Medal athlete, Dame Mary Peters.

Constable Colin McClelland, who has played for the PSNI Pipe Band since its inception, said: "The band had been to the 2011 World Police and Fire Games in New York to highlight the fact the Games would be in Northern Ireland this year, and Dame Mary Peters thought it would be nice to have a unique and special piece of music. When I got home the other pipe band members and myself started to put together some music.

"Once we had the music written we spoke to Deputy Chief Constable Judith Gillespie. She can read music and said she was very pleased with the piece and that we should record it. We then got together nine members of the pipe band at a large assembly hall and recorded the piece in its entirety."

PSNI Deputy Chief Constable Judith Gillespie said: "I am delighted Mary’s Air was composed for the Games and I believe that it is a very fitting title, not just given Dame Mary's sporting success, but also as a tribute to the fantastic support and enthusiasm which she has shown to the Belfast Games."

John Tully, CEO of the 2013 WPFG explains: "With over 14,000 people attending the Opening Ceremony and security to be cleared at the entrance, we are advising people to travel early, at least before 4pm and to take advantage of Translink’s special services.

"Doors open at 3pm and the King’s Hall site will be fully animated with activities and displays. Belfast City Council has done a terrific job in creating the purpose built arena and co-ordinating what is going to be a spectacular Opening Ceremony befitting the friendliest games ever."

(IT/MH)