For us in Westminster, the challenges and opportunities are wide-varied. Unlike some previous host cities, London is already a world-wide tourist destination and must maintain that reputation at all costs. We have a team of colleagues working hard with key partners to ensure that our operational plans are in place in order for very centre of the capital to run smoothly in the midst of the sporting venues in Westminster (not least the Beach Volleyball at Horse Guards Parade), cultural events, and the party atmosphere that we will all want to see work well during the summer of 2012.
Here we have already found that the "London 2012 effect" can be used as a catalyst to get our communities volunteering at big events such as Chinese New Year or our young people to become Sports Ambassadors championing sport and physical activity amongst their peers in schools.
We have started local cultural trails and already linked local community groups with some of our world class arts and cultural institutions - using London 2012 to open up new opportunities to all.
It definitely feels as though the gradual building of this momentum will be crucial to the overall success of both the Olympic and Parlaympic Games. To all the cynics out there, we'd say simply: 'Watch This Space'.
It may sound cheesy but we believe in the power of the Olympic and Paralympic spirit. Our very own senior policy advisor didn't enjoy PE at school as it wasn't very inclusive – but inspired by the Games she has tried out new sports and now plays badminton.
London 2012 should offer something for everyone and be the biggest and best showcase for London on a global scale.
Here in the heart of our city, we can't wait.
