Lord Sebastian Coe has called on the hospitality industry to strengthen its partnership with the 2012 London Olympic team and seize the massive opportunity the Olympic Games presents for the sector.
Speaking last week at the annual Arena Lecture in London's Savoy hotel, the Olympic gold medallist said the industry's support early on in the bid process had been vital at a time when many believed London couldn't win the event.
"I hope we can keep the partnership going," said Coe. "We still need to nail down more bed spaces and make sure the hospitality industry is involved at all levels, so that every tourist goes home and talks of the great experience they had."
Asked what would happen after the event, Coe said he hoped the games would provide foundations for long-term development in the city.
Over the next six months, construction work for the games will start, the Olympic Bill will be passed by Parliament and two major corporate sponsors will be signed up.
By Chris Druce