Olympic rings unveiled

A set of enormous Olympic rings have been unveiled at St Pancras International as the countdown continues to London 2012.

They measure 20 metres wide by nine metres high and weigh more than two tonnes.  They were built over the course of four weeks by a team of 25 people in Hitchin in Hertfordshire.  They were transported to St Pancras by lorry in 39 separate parts and secretly assembled and installed over seven nights.

Seb Coe, Chair of the London Olympics Organising Committee said: "The Olympic Rings are an iconic symbol, inspiring athletes and uniting people around the world. To athletes they represent the culmination of thousands of hours of training and reaching the highest level in sport. To Londoners and visitors alike, they will excite and inspire them about being in a Host City and demonstrate that we are ready to welcome the world in 2012."

Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London said: "London is going to be at the centre of the world’s attention throughout 2012 and I want the whole city to harness every opportunity offered by the Games.

"Unveiling the first set of Olympic Rings at St Pancras International provides a fantastic glimpse into how the capital is gearing up for this unique event. London is embracing its role of Host City and I am determined to turn this enthusiasm into a lasting legacy for the city for generations to come.

"The rings will be a powerful symbol for millions of visitors using the iconic station that the capital is poised and ready to welcome the world's greatest sporting stars and put on the best show on earth."

Jeremy Hunt, Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport said: "This is a special moment for London as it begins its transformation into an Olympic Host City. The iconic Olympic Rings at St Pancras are a reminder to Londoners and visitors alike that the greatest sporting event in the world is now just round the corner."

During the Games St Pancras International will be one of the key access points to the Olympic Park.  The Javelin Service from St Pancras International will take 25,000 visitors per hour visitors to and from the Games in a seven minute journey along the High Speed 1 track to Stratford International. St Pancras International was the location for the first flagship London 2012 Shop.