Last updated at 20:13, Thursday, 21 June 2012

We certainly didn’t let it rain on our parade.

Yesterday’s torch relay through West Cumbria was a spectacular success, despite midsummer’s meteorological madness.

We’ve played our part, and the sceptics were wrong; the Olympic spirit is catching fire as we build up to the London games.

But the torch relay wasn’t this area’s only important set-piece of the last week, and the other also had “legacy” at its heart.

The launch of Britain’s Energy Coast Blueprint may also be dismissed by cynics; talk of 3,000 new jobs remains very much a long-term goal.

But those who’re mapping out West Cumbria’s future economy insist it is more than a wish list.

They feel that attracting £90bn investment by becoming a leader in the global energy market is achievable.

Certainly, key steps are already being taken to improve skills and learning here.

We recently reported on a new University Technical College for Lillyhall. A Liverpool University site at West-lakes is also on the way.

We now require Government support for better infrastructure; improved road and rail links for starters.

At least we know that people are talking seriously about the possibilities; it is good to know that we have champions fighting for our area.

We’ve had the Olympic flame; perhaps we can now light a beacon for jobs.

First published at 19:20, Thursday, 21 June 2012
Published by http://www.timesandstar.co.uk