Theresa May calls for the UK to harness spirit of the Olympics ahead of Brexit

THERESA May wants to harness the spirit of the Olympics to give Brexit-bound Britain new confidence for the future.

The PM is expected to meet with our gold-winning sports champions when they return from the Rio games.

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And she hopes their effort, determination and positive outlook will help spin off for the rest of the country.

She declared: “The euphoria of London 2012 didn’t end four years ago, and it doesn’t end now.”

Ministers have been asked to utilise the Olympics slipstream to drive up attainment in schools, trade and negotiations for leaving the EU.

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Mrs May added: “For the past fortnight, the people of the United Kingdom have been filled with pride as we’ve watched our Olympians take victory in so many sports with power, grace and control.

“In every discipline and at every stage, Team GB have shown the world what we’re made of: determination, dignity and true sportsmanship.

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“They haven’t just made history; by showing just how far talent and hard work can take you, they have inspired the next generation.

"They have also shown the importance of supporting elite sport, and that is something this Government remains wholly committed to.”