There was nothing common about the Common Wealth Games in Birmingham!
If you had never heard of Birmingham before then you have now, we have been firmly placed on the world map, backed up by the popularity of The Peaky Blinders AND the fact that we have produced some of the best music in the world.
Who knew there were so many brilliant thigs about Birmingham?
Well I did for one and Brummies in general know how brilliant they are but the Common Wealth Games has allowed us to own our accent and take pride in it, love our industrial heritage which was show cased spectacularly at the Games and our sporting facilities were used to their full potential.
I played two parts in the Games.
As a freelance Photographer for the NEC my brief was to take stock photographs and illustrate how skilled the NEC workforce is in building technically challenging sets for particular sports events, to showcase the delivery of every element of such a large event. From the safety and security of the guests and athletes to the care and safety of the whole workforce.
For two days I photographed the NEC precinct and the events staged in the four halls and then onto Arena Birmingham to photograph the Gymnastics, show how the staff and visitors interacted and enjoyed the event.
The second part of my role was as a Steward in the Badminton hall, I didn't know anything about Badminton beforehand and now I can honestly say I'm quite a fan of it now.
The spectators were brilliant, excited, friendly and would cheer on every competitor from every nation, it was such a privilege to be involved I am a very proud Brummie!
Everyone was very co-operative in the stand and totally understood the need for a focus on safety and made working there a breeze.