My West London Life

Seb Coe

Seb Coe

January
4

Former athlete, winner of four Olympic medals and politician, Seb Coe talks family and his love of jazz

Where do you live?

I live in Surrey – it’s close to both London and my children’s schools.

You were born in west London. What’s your earliest memory?

A long walk with my father in a London park – I was on his shoulders.

Who has been your biggest inspiration and why?

My father was a huge inspiration in my life, he taught me to always go beyond my personal best.

You headed the successful bid for London to host 2012 Summer Olympic Games. What long-term benefits do you think this will bring to London?

We want London 2012 to provide opportunities for people across the UK long after the Games have finished. Everything from the outset has been planned so that we leave a lasting legacy. Everyone at London 2012 is putting their heart and soul into ensuring that the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games in 2012 are a spectacular success and deliver a tangible legacy. The Olympic Park Legacy Company has now been set up to manage the venues inside the Olympic Park after the Games and make sure they are put to good use for sporting, educational and community purposes.

What are you most proud of and why?

My four children. I’m never happier than when I’m with them.

What is your top tip for a tourist in London

Get an Oyster Card. Also go and explore all of London’s jazz clubs.

How do you spend an ideal Sunday?

I would spend it with my children – going to see Chelsea at Stamford Bridge followed by a nice meal.

Who would you choose to play you in a film of your life?

Steve Ovett.

What’s the best thing to do in London for free?

To go and see one of the beautiful parks our capital has and then go for a run along the river, taking in all the sights.

What’s the most extravagant luxury item you’ve ever bought?

My collection of jazz music.

If you could eat one last meal in west London where would it be?

It would be at La Famiglia [7 Langton Street, SW3] restaurant.

What makes you proud to be a Londoner?

The fact that I was born in a city that is completely unique. But also, when I see what the London 2012 Games will do in terms of the regeneration of East London and leaving a lasting sporting, cultural and educational legacy.

What’s your philosophy on life?

Make a difference.

www.london2012.com

Celia Walden on the gossip columnist years, bringing up children in London & the release of her new novel, Little Hands

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Celia Walden is an author, columnist, feature writer and US Editor-at-large for the Daily Telegraph. Last summer, Universal International Studios and Working Title won the rights to her forthcoming novel, Little Hands. She will executive produce the series alongside 42’s Peter Dealbert, Josh… Read more →

Joti Gata-Aura, ambassador for Changing Faces

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Joti Gata-Aura, ambassador for Changing Faces, on the 2026 'Think Before You Speak' campaign

Unwanted questions are something many people with visible differences experience in everyday life. This year’s Changing Faces campaign film shines a light on those moments and the long-term impact they can have on those who experience them daily. New figures suggest that 9 in 10 people with visibleRead more →