The Co-op Bank is proud to support the Great CityGames Manchester 2016

Manchester based Co-op Bank is pleased to announce our headline sponsorship of the Great CityGames Manchester, taking place on Friday 20th May 2016 in the city centre.

The event, now in its eighth year, is expected to draw a crowd of thousands, as spectators flock to get a glimpse of athletes headed to Rio this summer.

Taking place on a Friday evening for the first time, the unique format of the Great CityGames allows spectators to see athletes from around the world compete in an urban environment and unlike an ordinary stadium meet, they experience all the action up close.

The event is completely free to spectate and will include performances from some of the best international elite athletes including; Olympic gold medallist, long jumper Greg Rutherford (GB), European indoor 60m champion Richard Kilty (GB) and European 100m and 200m champion Dafne Schippers (Netherlands).

The event takes place on the Great CityGames track on Deansgate in the heart of the city, and at the purpose built athletics arena in Albert Square. This year's event will serve as the perfect curtain-raiser for a fantastic summer of international competition.

Alastair Pegg, Marketing Director at The Co-operative Bank, said: “It's great to be part of bringing elite athletes to the city in an Olympic year. As a Manchester based business; I hope our customers and employees will be part of the crowds gathering to watch the events and cheering on those taking part. I think having an event like this taking place in the heart of the city really brings a buzz to the area and watching elite athletes compete on the doorstep of your workplace, favourite bar or restaurant is certainly a different way to spend a Friday evening.

“I'm sure the event will be a great success and The Co-op Bank is proud to be working with the team delivering the Great CityGames Manchester and all the benefits it will have on other local businesses and the wider community.”

Nicky Homes, Commercial Director of the Great Run Company said: “We're delighted to have The Co-op Bank on board for this incredible event.

“The people of Manchester have always embraced the Great CityGames concept so it's fantastic to be working with a local organisation as we continue to create fun, free and accessible opportunities to cheer on our athletes.”

Richard Kilty; European indoor 60m champion, said: “The Great CityGames Manchester is an amazing event and one I always enjoy.

“Having the crowd right on top of you is so much fun for athletes, and it's a good opportunity for people to come down and see us perform before the Olympics. Hopefully I can put on a show for them.”

The event is completely free to spectate and no tickets are required, for further information see www.greatcitygames.org.