THIS month the Olympics will take place in Europe.

The sports tournament takes place every four years and the 33rd Olympiad will take place in Paris, France.

The Olympic Games are leading international sports events featuring summer and winter sports competitions with thousands of athletes from around the world competing.

They are considered the world's foremost sports competition with more than 200 teams, representing sovereign states and territories, participating.

Their creation was inspired by the ancient Olympic Games, held in Olympia, Greece from the 8th century BC to the 4th century AD.

The Ancient Olympic Games were religious and athletic festivals held every four years at the sanctuary of Zeus in Olympia, Greece.

Baron Pierre de Coubertin founded the International Olympic Committee in 1894, leading to the first modern Games in Athens in 1896.

The Olympic Games are held every four years. Since 1994, they have alternated between the Summer and Winter Olympics every two years during the four-year Olympiad.

The Games have grown to the point that nearly every nation is now represented; colonies and overseas territories are often allowed to field their own teams.

Every two years, the Olympics and its media exposure provide athletes with the chance to attain national and international fame. The Games also provide an opportunity for the host city and country to showcase themselves to the world.

These photos show how people in Cumbria have been inspired by or involved with the Olympics over the years. We hope that they help to bring back some fond memories for you.