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Pewsey's Olympic Pride: Streets Named After Champion
6 Feb
Summary
- Two streets in Pewsey are now named Olympic Road and Silver Road.
- Villagers raised funds for Rudman's Turin Olympic journey.
- A champion's welcome included an open-top bus parade through the village.
The silver medal won by World Skeleton champion Shelley Rudman at the 2006 Winter Olympics continues to resonate in her hometown of Pewsey. This achievement, making her the sole medalist for Team GB that year, has left a permanent mark on the village, with two streets now named Olympic Road and Silver Road in her honor. Rudman expressed her amusement and pride that her children are fond of these street names.
Villagers played a pivotal role in Rudman's Olympic journey, actively participating in fundraising efforts to send her to Turin. Their commitment extended to creative endeavors, such as a 35-mile canoe trip along the Kennet and Avon Canal. The local pub, The Moonrakers, experienced a media frenzy, with landlord Jerry Kunkler recalling interviews with national and local news outlets. Following her return, a grand champion's welcome awaited Rudman, including an open-top bus parade organized by local reporter Nigel Kerton, drawing thousands of villagers.
