The European Athletics Championships, held in Birmingham from August 10 to 16, drew spectators from across the continent, many of whom expressed admiration for the city. Visitors from Sweden, Spain, Estonia, Germany, Norway, and Iceland were among those raising flags and cheering on their compatriots, with several describing Birmingham as "incredible" and welcoming.
Visitors share their impressions of Birmingham
BirminghamLive spoke to families supporting athletes during the marathon events on Sunday, which saw Finland's Alisa Vainio win gold in the women's race and Germany's Amanal Petros finish first in the men's. Abbie Donnelly made history as the first British woman to win a marathon medal at the European Championships, taking bronze.
Norwegian mum Cry Hhorndalsveen cheered on her son from the edge of Sands Pits in the Jewellery Quarter, saying he was "in the middle" of the pack and doing "very well" just before he passed. German athletics fan Peter, who landed at BHX earlier in the week, said: "You have an incredible city. Me and my wife have felt very welcome."
Returning visitors note the city's changes
Michael Lane, who travelled from Ireland with his daughter Aisling, said Birmingham had changed a lot since his last visit. "[Today] is our first chance to relax, and actually take a look around," he said. His daughter, who had never properly been in England before, added: "The people are really lovely. Especially the volunteers here. They're noticeably so, so nice. We were in the Bullring shopping centre yesterday - and it's very big!"
Alvaro Rodriguez, a former professional athlete from Madrid, returned to the city where he competed in the 2010 British Athletics Championships. He said: "Yes, yes. I've had the opportunity to taste some good Indian food, some good restaurants, and also the nice city centre. I think the atmosphere has been great. It has been very nice."
Local residents join in the praise
Another Spanish visitor, Antonio, who came with his family, said: "This is all beautiful to see. We're enjoying it and happy to be here." He joked about the heat, saying it was hotter in Birmingham than at home, and mentioned enjoying several pubs, including "The Good Intent."
Birmingham resident Piper Thomas, 44, said she was "so happy" to see big crowds turn out. She commented: "It's giving a bit Commonwealth here, isn't it? Not to the same scale as that was…but it's amazing to see the good atmosphere in Brum again. I just love being here. It's vibey. It's fun. How can you not love this? I like it when Birmingham is shown on the big stage. We can do it all when we want to."
