This week I was delighted to see first hand the tremendous progress that is being made at the Olympic Park, one year on from the start of the 'big build' phase of construction. 

I was lucky enough to have ODA Chairman John Armitt as my tour guide and it was fascinating to hear how this enormous space - the same size as 357 football pitches – is being transformed from a largely industrial site to an Olympic Park where more than 15,000 athletes will compete in 2012. 

As we paused for photos overlooking the steelwork shell that is already recognisable as the Olympic Stadium, it was clear that our Games will not only be about truly impressive and inspirational venues, but about creating long-term benefits for local communities. The Olympic Park is providing jobs and boosting the construction industry at a time of economic need, and will enable local people to lead healthier and more active lives long after 2012.

And of course the benefits from 2012 will extend far beyond the east of London to reach every corner of the country. Many of the 375 councils in England and Wales are already working hard to use the inspiration of the Games to encourage more people to participate in culture, volunteering and sport, as well as boosting local businesses and attracting tourists.