LIB Dems in Medway are continuing their onslaught on what they claim are the council’s 'pie-in-the-sky’ plans to get a big spin-off from the 2012 Olympics.

They have obtained a detailed breakdown of the bill for the launch on January 23 of Medway’s Olympic venture.

It showed the one-day programme of events and longer-term promotions cost nearly £50,000.

The council hopes Olympic competitors will be attracted to training facilities in Medway. But the Lib Dems say too much is being spent for a questionable outcome.

Among the Lib Dems’ targets is a prestige dinner at which five-times gold medallist Sir Steve Redgrave was VIP guest.

Lib Dem Leader Cllr Geoff Juby said: “Medway’s Tories delight in spending taxpayers’ money, and it’s very clear the public aren’t getting any benefit out of this. The facility most likely to be of interest is the Rebound Trampoline Centre at Gillingham - thanks to the funding by former Lib Dem Gillingham Council.

“And why a hockey pitch at a local school should be chosen over dozens elsewhere – most with better hotels and infrastructure, simply beggars belief.”

Cllr Juby added: “Other expenditure is equally questionable. We know the wristbands given to primary pupils cost £4,500 but £21,000 was spent on the Olympic 'countdown clock’.

“The dinner failed to attract many takers – not surprising at £65 a head - and, as we now see, half the 200 or so who were there didn’t pay for their tickets.

“The most amazing claim was the University of Kent had 'pledged’ £3 million. It seems there’s nothing confirmed and nobody knows when or how the money will be given – if ever.”

Cllr Juby said council cash should only be spent on sports facilities for local people.

Deputy council leader Cllr Alan Jarrett is angry about the Lib Dems’ claims. He said: “I was there when a senior member of the University of Kent at Medway pledged the £3 million. Are they going to ring him and call him a liar?

“As usual, the Lib Dems are missing the point. This is not just about the Olympics but about providinbg sports facilities for future generations.

"We are looking at a redevelopment of the Black Lion Centre running into multi-millions.” He insisted £50,000 was money well spent for long-term benefits.

Breakdown of costs as supplied to councillors:

Marketing, promotions, filming etc

£5,332

Countdown clock, posters and logo

£21,150

Wristbands for primary schoolchildren

£4,447

Firework display

£4,470

Appearance fees and expenses (council contribution)

£8,936

Dinner at Corn Exchange (net of £6,500 sales)

£2,500

Table tennis tournament

£1,500

Total cost to Medway Council