Lady Mary Peters is pictured with Jim Rose, Director of Leisure & Community Development at Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council; Alderman James Tinsley, Chairman of the council's Leisure & Community Development Committee; Derek Gallop, editor and Chris Andrews, publisher of ‘Passing the Torch- Sportswomen who Inspire’.

 Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council was delighted to host a recent book launch for its Freeman Lady Mary Peters to mark the publication of her book ‘Passing the Torch- Sportswomen who Inspire’ at Lagan Valley Island.  Young local athletes, their families and members of the Mary Peters Trust attended the launch.

Lady Mary Peters initiated and edited this book of short inspirational stories from established sportswomen, whether in their prime or post competition, to support and encourage women in sport. The proceeds from the sales of the book will go to the Mary Peters Trust which supports the development of young athletes across a wide range of sports.

Alderman James Tinsley, Chairman of the council’s Leisure & Community Development Committee hosting the reception said: “Through this book Lady Mary Peters is ensuring that her passion for sport is passed down to future generations.  The council is supportive of Lady Mary and all the work she does to inspire young athletes including within the Lisburn Castlereagh area across a number of sporting disciplines.

“This book celebrates the remarkable determination of women on the road to achieving their sporting goals and has been honoured by a foreword from HRH The Princess Royal. All the interviews, including Mary’s own story, of practicing on a homemade high jump pit and hurdle, epitomize the grit and focus required to succeed in sport, but also the huge joy and opportunity it brought to all of their lives.  I hope this book is enjoyed by many.”

It includes interviews with Lady Mary Peters, Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, Dame Katherine Grainger, Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson, Dame Kelly Holmes, Dr Janet Gray, Sue Barker, Maria Costello, Sally Gunnell, Caroline O’Hanlon, Christine Ohuruogu, Shirley McCay and Paula Radcliffe.

Speaking about the book Lady Mary Peters added: “I loved the opportunity to bring together the experiences of fellow sportswomen on their motivation, the highs and lows of competing and the physical and mental benefits of sport.  My message to all young people is if you have talent, or even if you haven’t, have a go. The opportunity for friendship, travel and good health is one which can never be replaced.”