Researchers at the University of Warwick were commissioned by Spirit of 2012, the social legacy funder from the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympic Games to write an expert advisory report on better ways to develop the UK major events ecosystem which have such a positive impact on our society; showcasing the best of British talent and creativity; bringing communities together; and driving economic impact.

‘Creating the golden thread’ sets out recommendations for a national ambition that provides a framework to strengthen the legacy of culture, sport and ceremonial major events from inception to legacy with joint responsibility across key stakeholders to maximise the long-term social impact through collaborative partnerships supporting policy, investment and destination management, as well as data to underpin learning and progression.

The report is based in experience and expertise in the evaluation of major events from Jonothan Neelands, Haley Beer and Mark Scott in WBS, including Coventry’s year as City of Culture in 2021 and the Commonwealth Games hosted in Birmingham in 2022 and the findings from a series of roundtables for funders, event organisers and local government held in Coventry, Edinburgh and Liverpool.

The report, ‘Creating the golden thread, an ambition for major events in the UK’ was shared at a reception held at the House of Lords on Monday 17 June, hosted by Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson who worked on the 2012 Games bid and then on the delivery. She is a Board Member of several organisations including the London Legacy Development Corporation.