Children sing for Games handover

Hundreds of children have sung a specially composed song as London became the official host city for the 2012 Paralympic Games.

Primary school pupils across Merton, south London, simultaneously broke into song to coincide with the handover ceremony in Beijing on Wednesday.

It's a Beam, written by 10-year-old Oyeronke Oyerinde from Merton, was chosen for its "inspirational" lyrics.

It was selected from entries sent in by children from 25 local primary schools.

Lyrics were then sent out so the children could memorise the words and the tune.

LYRICS FROM IT'S A BEAM
"

Friendship, respect and excellence

Is all you really need

If you know that you've got that

You're part of the Olympic tree

It takes power and confidence

Courage matters too

And whilst you're out there racing

We'll believe in you..."
Oyeronke Oyerinde's song

It's a Beam was chosen by Merton Music Foundation's deputy director, Soo Bishop, who praised its rhythmic energy, catchy melody and inspiring lyrics.

Once selected, Oyeronke's song was scored and recorded at Crown Lane Studios in Morden.

Following Wednesday afternoon's performance, the song was also to be sung at a Merton Council meeting by pupils from Cranmer Primary School.

Merton Council Leader, Councillor David Williams said: "Bringing the two disciplines of sport and music together on this special day embodies the spirit of the Olympics and the cultural Olympiad in the lead-up to the Games in London.

"It is truly wonderful to see so much young talent in the borough."

Soo Bishop said: "Performing It's a Beam in the council chamber to all the councillors provides a great opportunity to showcase what Merton's young people can do."

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