On 6 July 2005, the United Kingdom won its bid to host the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, having convinced the International Olympic Committee that London will offer a world-class stage to the world's greatest athletes.

The Games will benefit the whole country. They have the potential to increase the numbers of people taking part in sport, and leave a lasting legacy of facilities for the local community. They will also bring benefits in terms of regeneration, investment and tourism.

The blueprint for the London Olympics and Paralympics is based on extensive use of existing venues, rapid transport connections and state-of-the-art sporting facilities linked to sustainable community benefits.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office is working with lead Government Department, Culture Media and Sport, and other key stakeholders to ensure that the 2012 Games leave a lasting legacy and create maximum benefits for the United Kingdom.