Two years to go until London 2012 Olympics and Paralympic Games
The Foreign Office has marked the milestone by launching the first of our short films celebrating modern Britain, featuring Japanese Judo champion Kosei Inoue.
Today marks two years to go until the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games in London. It’s a very exciting time for the UK, and a real opportunity for Britain to step into the world spotlight. More than 50 nations competing in 2012 will be cheered on by more than 10,000 of their fellow country men and women. The Games will have an impact on every part of our lives - from culture to health, from education to the environment, from the economy to our local community.
Speaking ahead of the two year mark, Foreign Secretary William Hague said:
“We (the UK) have long wanted to host the Olympic Games again and are very proud to be doing so in 2012. It will be a great year to visit the UK, to do business and see all the great things that the UK has to offer…. 2012 is not just about the Games themselves but about leaving a strong sustainable legacy for the future.
“That is why we are determined to conduct the Games in a way that brings low carbon emissions, promotes healthier living for families and that encourages biodiversity. A set of games that leaves behind many things that are good for the wider world.”
The Foreign Office is marking the two year point by launching our series of “See Britain” short films. These films give people from other countries the chance to tell us what they think about the UK - and the viewer can find out about the lives of a range of people who live and work here. In the build-up to the Games, we’re interested in how others see the UK and have spoken to a wide range of people with links to the UK about their experiences. Our first “See Britain” film features Japanese Judo champion Kosei Inoue, who is currently coaching Judo at the famous Budokwai in London. Watch the film here.
Keep visiting our website to see more See Britain films (we plan to release another every two to three weeks) and to stay informed about London 2012 developments.
Two years ahead of London 2012, the project is running on time and within budget, with 70 per cent of construction complete. The Olympic Stadium’s roof cover has been completed and is the most visible symbol of the huge progress that’s been made on the construction of the Olympic Park. The Park is a self-standing showcase of the best of UK industry and capability. Our colleagues at UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) are taking this message around the world to help deliver a strong business and economic legacy from the Games.
Meanwhile, the London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (LOCOG) is marking two years to go in a number of ways. This includes launching the 2012 volunteering programme to find up to 70,000 Games Makers who will help deliver the Games, and urging the British public to plan their Games to make the most of summer in 2012. Find out more about how you can get started by visiting the Official site of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The Olympic Games will run from 27 July 2012 until 12 August 2012. The Paralympic Games will be held from 29 August 2012 to 9 September 2012. With just two years to go, it could be time to consider how you might like to be part of the 2012 Olympics.