UK support for the London 2012 Games continues to grow

In 2005 the research indicated 53 per cent of people felt that hosting the Games in 2012 would positively transform British sport and 33 per cent of people felt that hosting the Games would encourage children to do more sport in the next 12 months.

In this year's research, 59 per cent of people questioned believe that winning the Olympic and Paralympic Games is already encouraging children to play more sport.

"The vision we took to Singapore was to reach young people all around the world, to connect them with the inspirational power of the Games so they are inspired to choose sport," said London 2012 Organising Committee Chief Executive, Paul Deighton. "It is encouraging that people believe this is already happening. We hope to see more and more children being inspired to choose sport as we move towards 2012."

The current research also showed a strong belief that the London 2012 Games would have an impact across the whole of the UK with 81 per cent of respondents agreeing with this statement.

"While London is hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012, these Games are for the whole of the UK," said Deighton. The London 2012 Roadshow that will be travelling around the UK in July will help to reinforce this message and show people in all nations and regions how they can become part of 2012 and really benefit from the Games.

The survey also showed a widespread belief that businesses will benefit from the Games, with 91 per cent of people agreeing that many companies and brands will want to sponsor the Games. This is very much reflected in the strong interest that London 2012 has already received from companies about the business opportunities and benefits that partnering the Games can offer.

Paul Deighton, CEO of London 2012 commented, "Just one year on from winning the bid to host the 2012 Games, it is great to learn that people share the view that the Games are for everyone and that specific groups such as children are already being inspired to get more involved in sport. This definitely fits with the reactions I get from people around the country who are overwhelmingly positive and enthusiastic about how the Games can be a real catalyst for change."

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For further information please contact the London 2012 Press Office on +44 (0)203 2012 100

Notes to Editors :

2006 data is based on Sponsatrak, on online survey conducted amongst a nationally representative sample of 571 UK respondents.

2005 survey was based on 2,764 responses from sports fans across UK, France, Germany, USA and Australia.

Sports Marketing Surveys is one of the world's leading sponsorship and sports research agency. Established in 1984 it is entirely independent with over 20 years experience in the industry.