Olympic bid a golden chance for economy

THE director of a Lothians college chosen as a potential 2012 Olympic training venue said the move was a "tremendous" prospect for the local economy.

The Scottish National Equestrian Centre (SNEC) at Oatridge College, West Lothian, was one of four venues in the region selected by the London organising committee earlier this month.

Director Carson Jones today said the announcement "has seen one of his greatest ambitions come a step closer to reality".

Mr Jones has previously pledged to make the SNEC a centre of excellence and a focus for all equestrian sport in Scotland.

The drive is now under way to market the facilities and attract the attention of Olympic equestrians around the world.

Mr Jones added: "It's a very exciting prospect, because it will help put the SNEC, West Lothian and Scotland on the equine map."