Keely Hodgkinson, a young athletics star from Atherton, is among the prominent figures advocating for a bid to bring the Olympic Games to Northern England. This endorsement comes in light of Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham's assertion that future Olympic bids should not be centered in London again. Burnham emphasizes the need for a bid that reflects the entire nation, rather than focusing solely on the capital, a sentiment echoed by local athletes who are eager to showcase the North's sporting prowess.

Hodgkinson, who made a remarkable impact by winning a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, expressed her excitement about the prospect of hosting the Games in Manchester—a city known for its rich sporting heritage and dedication to various sports, including football, cycling, and athletics. The initiative aims to capitalize on the burgeoning sports culture in the North, allowing local communities to engage more deeply with elite sporting events and potentially inspire a new generation of athletes.

As discussions around a future Olympic bid gain momentum, the contrasting visions between London’s mayor Sadiq Khan, who advocates for the Games to return to the capital, and Northern advocates set up a compelling narrative about regional representation in sports. The call for the Olympics in the North not only seeks to bring prestigious sporting events closer to various communities but also aims to stimulate local economies and showcase the North of England as a hub for elite sporting events.