These were to be the 'legacy olympics'. Regeneration of run down areas, the enthusing of young people with the ideals of sport and healthy activity, the showcasing of the UK (or at least its south-eastern segment), new stadia and facilities - all these have been presented as the quid pro quo for massive expenditure and the likelihood of a gridlocked capital city.
Sebastian Coe has come under pressure ove reports of abuses of Bangladeshi workers producing clothes for Adidas, official sportswear partner of the 2012 Games.
Faith leaders and community groups in London are promoting One Hundred Days of Peace, to develop a "peace legacy" for the London Olympic Games in 2012.