A British Olympian has backed Active Norfolk's Pledge 2012 initiative by making his own commitment to use the Games to inspire others.

The Active Norfolk scheme, run in association with Norfolk County Council and NHS Norfolk and supported by the Eastern Daily Press and BBC Radio Norfolk, calls on people to make a personal commitment which can be anything from running 5km to doing more activities with the family.

Olympic silver medallist Steve Backley OBE made his pledge when he attended the Norfolk School Games on Monday.

The former world record holder for javelin said: 'My pledge is to use the Olympic Games and help anyone who is inspired and wants to get help for their sporting careers. I will do my best.'

As part of Monday's event, Mr Backley cheered on thousands of youngsters as they leapt, ran, rowed and swam to glory.

More than 2,000 schoolchildren, aged between five and 15, competed in 23 different sports over the two days.

Over the two days, the youngsters are competing in sports including tri golf, quicksticks hockey, athletics, tag rugby, gymnastics, indoor rowing and an aquathlon, which will see them swim and run.

Hundreds of people have already made their pledge, which have ranged from taking part in a marathon to swapping the car for two wheels more regularly.

There are a range of 'pledge packs' available and everyone who makes a pledge will be given support to help them achieve their goal.

Their face will also become part of Norfolk's giant 2012 Flag being unveiled at the Forum in Norwich before the Games.

To see Steve Backley's pledge online or to make your own health or fitness commitment, go to www.pledge2012.com.

Watch out for our Olympic supplement, London Calling, next Wednesday.

kate.scotter@archant.co.uk.