Jonathan Edwards welcomes 2012 Roadshow to West Midlands

As well as the chance to meet and talk to athletes, the Roadshow offered a range of taster sessions and demonstrations throughout the day, supported by Sport England, such as tennis speed-serving, penalty shootout, gymnastics, canoeing, rowing and circuit training.

A 'Dream Statistics' zone provided by The National Lottery was also on site allowing people to find out if they could be the next sporting hero - or simply what sports they are most suited to - by testing their height, weight and muscle power.

Councillor Chris Saint, chair of the West Midlands Leadership Group for the 2012 Games said: 'London won the chance to host the 2012 Games on the back of the promise that the Games would mean something to people the length and breadth of the UK - and the West Midlands is particularly keen to make sure that happens.

'Not only are we ideally placed geographically to welcome international teams looking to base themselves close to the capital, but as a region we have a reputation for encouraging sporting excellence and hosting major international events.

'The West Midlands Leadership Group for 2012 has been set up to help ensure that our region gets its share of the business, economic and tourism opportunities offered by the Games.

'More than that, however, we want local people to get involved and to take part directly in the Games through volunteering or simply by being inspired by what they see to try their own hand at sport.'