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I gave an example in my speech. One outstanding memory for me is from the Torino Games ceremony: it was the spectacle of climbers on a net forming a peace dove, all framed by the Olympic Rings. It was an association of strong symbols: the rings, the dove representating peace, and amazing athletic performance. Afterwards there was Peter Gabriel singing a version of ‘Imagine’.

It was an inspiring use of what the Olympic Games are about – sport, culture and strong symbolism. I truly believe that they have a meaning for the world today.

I have emotional sporting memories too. I will never forget, as a child, watching Nadia Comaneci’s amazing performance in 1976, or Seb Coe winning gold, or, later, Michael Johnson’s two gold medals and world records in Atlanta, and Carl Lewis’s last gold medal.

And as an Ice Hockey player, I have tonnes of great personal memories, including my dad participating in the Sapporo Games back in 1972, when I was three years old.

As for the 2012 Games, I hope that the legacy will touch the whole UK, so that everyone will have a sense of inclusion. The legacy will start with the training camps for athletes being held across the UK, the Torch Relay, and an increased interest in sport which will benefit everyone. I hope, too, that parties will be organised across the UK for the Games really to spread nationwide and light the fire throughout the country.

Then there will be the legacy of the remediation and redevelopment of the Lower Lea Valley, as well as remarkable architectural icons like the Aquatics Centre.

And equally - or more - important, there will be the emotional legacy for us all in experiencing a multi-cultural society like the UK reaching out to embrace the world. With a touch of magic from the athletes, we will all have amazing memories for years afterwards.