Business backs the bid

Business leaders today joined forces to back London's bid for the 2012 Olympics.

They presented a united front after a parade of British medallists through central London which saw tens of thousands of fans gather in Trafalgar Square to honour their heroes.

The declaration of support comes as the bid enters a crucial phase with four weeks until the final deadline for the five shortlisted cities to set out their cases in full.

Colin Stanbridge, chief executive of the London Chamber of Commerce, said: "There is a growing feeling in the business community that British success at Athens has put us back in the race and to have so many medallists on the streets of London can only give us yet more momentum.

"London has increasingly made its case for hosting the Games in

2012. The vast majority of businesses are aware of the advantages and would do anything they can to help the bid."

Mary Rance, director of CBI London, echoed the sentiments of double gold medallist Kelly Holmes, who described the parade as "very important" for the bid.

London First chairman Stephen O'Brien said: "Hosting the Games is a statement of national pride and, we hope, a catalyst for further improving the success of further GB Olympic teams."

Boxer Amir Khan and rower Matthew Pinsent are also among athletes backing London's bid after being honoured by the Queen at Buckingham Palace last night.

The final Olympic bids are due to be submitted by London and four other cities - Paris, Madrid, Moscow and New York - on 15 November. London will present its case in a report comprising a detailed analysis of security, funding, facilities, infrastructure, transport and accommodation.