A BID to host an Olympic training camp in South Cheshire has received strong backing from a key Olympic Committee member.

President of the International Paralympic Committee, Sir Philip Craven, has voiced his support for the bid, which would see top athletes preparing for the 2012 London Olympics using facilities in the area.

Last week the Chronicle revealed the submission of the bid, spearheaded by MMU Cheshire and Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council, to host a major competing country in the run-up to the 2012 Games.

Sir Philip, of Shavington, believes that the joint bid, which also involves Keele University and Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, is in keeping with the spirit of the games being 'Britain's Games'.

He said: 'Two renowned universities and two go-ahead local authorities coming together in this application is exactly what Seb Coe meant when he said that the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games are the UK's Games.

'Teamwork, volunteerism and sports participation are the keys to establishing a sporting energy centre in this area for decades to come.'

The joint bid envisages the use of the Cumberland Sports Arena in Crewe as a training ground.

Sir Philip's backing comes as a major boost to the consortium's bid. A decision is expected from the London Organising Committee early next year.