Two new surveys show strong support for Games

In London, a poll commissioned by the Greater London Authority found that 74 percent of Londoners believe that the Olympics will be good for London.

Meanwhile, a BBC Sports poll has shown that 77 percent of the UK were pleased that the Games are being hosted here.

The BBC poll also showed that around 75 percent of English, Welsh and Scots were happy that the Games were heading to London. In Northern Ireland, the enthusiasm rose to 82%.

London organising committee Chairman Sebastian Coe said: "It is great to hear about the ongoing support from the regions and the rest of the UK."

"I think there is a feeling all of the UK will share the benefits that will come with holding the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games in this country."

Mayor of London Ken Livingstone was also pleased about the London results.

"This poll highlights that Londoner's understand that the Games will benefit the whole capital, not only with access to the world's greatest sporting event on our door step but with the massive investment coming to the city and the vast number of job opportunities that will be generated," he said.

31 March 2006