In spite of a global economic turmoil that hit the British economy hard, the cross-party support for the London 2012 Games and the UK-wide excitement has been encouraging. The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) has provided outstanding venues in the Olympic Park – within budget and on time. The infrastructure that London 2012 has created and the legacy that it is going to leave are major.
The whole country hopes the London 2012 legacy will leave behind one of our greatest peace-time achievements. The expectation is huge, especially from those of us involved in the organisation.
With new jobs, transport networks and a regenerated East End of London, it truly is once-in-a-lifetime event.
All out efforts are now going towards staging the Games successfully. Having been part of the London 2012 Organising Committee since 2006, I have seen how the team has worked very efficiently with the ODA and how it is now ready to put on the two biggest sporting events on the planet. This is an amazing story in itself!
A warm welcome for everyone
At London 2012, we are all excited about the fact that the Games will bring people from across Britain and the world to a vast array of fascinating events – both sporting and cultural. Not only can people can look forward to a fantastic six weeks of sport, but we've got an opportunity to showcase what London and the rest of the UK has to offer and demonstrate what makes our country so unique.
We also want to make sure that everyone – whether they are an athlete, spectator or visitor – feels welcome here in London. For example, as the Olympic events will fall in the month of Ramadan, Muslim Centres and Mosques in particular will offer generosity during the fasting month, opening their doors and welcoming athletes, spectators and visitors from around the world who will come to this country.
London is probably the most diverse city on earth and we cannot wait to welcome the world and celebrate the greatest sporting achievements on the planet. Over the next six months, we will be working flat out to deliver a Games the whole of the UK can be proud of.
