Image: The 2012 Velodrome under construction

A new government report exploring the benefits of preparing for the 2012 Games has hailed the construction of east London's Olympic Park as a "superb advertisement for UK plc".

The document has been produced by Olympic Delivery Authority chair Sir John Armitt and also underlines how UK firms now have experience that can help secure global contracts.

Among the recommendations of the report is that UKTI should maximise the promotion of British business achievements in the delivery of major sporting events.

The report also called for small- and medium-sized businesses to receive more assistance in accessing existing support for working on projects overseas.

Sir John said: "The report is designed to help government and businesses take the crucial next steps to ensure that working on London 2012 is the start, not the end, of this success story."

Details: goc2012.culture.gov.uk

Image: David Poultney/ODA