A BRADFORD-born Government official in Brazil will play a key role during the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

Wasim Mir, who is deputy head of mission to the British Ambassador to Brazil, Alex Ellis, said the country is gearing up to host the global event.

The Olympic Games begin in the country on Friday, August 5, and run until August 21, followed by the Paralympics from September 7 to 18.

Mr Mir’s role during the Olympics will be to co-ordinate each day’s activities and he will also be involved in events run in the Great Britain House, based in Rio, which has been specially opened for the sporting spectacular.

He will also make sure the Embassy team in Rio is able to support Team GB’s athletes, help British nationals travelling to Rio and use the Olympics to promote the UK as a tourist site and place to do business.

He also urged fans travelling to Brazil to take precautions including making their passport is valid, book tickets from authorised sellers and check which vaccinations and medication they need before they travel.

Mr Mir, who moved to Brazil in June 2014 and completes his posting in South America next year, said: “During the games, my main role will be to ensure all our work is co-ordinated.

“I will hold a meeting every day to look at the plans for the day to ensure everything runs according to plan.

“There have been worries around security, the Zika virus and whether the stadiums will be ready. But as the start of the games approaches, you can feel the atmosphere building. That said it is important visitors to Rio take precautions.

“During the games, my main role will be to ensure everything runs according to plan.

“I will be involved in events in the Great Britain House we have opened especially for the Olympics.

“It has been a busy time to be in Brazil with political changes in the country as well as the build-up to the Olympics.

“It is an enormous country and I have been lucky enough to have been able to travel to large parts of it.

“It has been hard work but at the same time really exciting as it will be the culmination of years of work.

“My two years in Brazil have gone in a flash.”

Despite living and working in Brazil, Mr Mir, a former student at the former Rhodesway School, Allerton, added his loyalty still lies with his homeland.

He said: “London 2012 was special. It was fantastic to have the Olympics back in the UK.

“Team GB did great and I hope they can win as many medals in Rio.

“Rio will also be special. It is a beautiful city and it will be the first time the games will be held in South America.”