‘Jaw-dropping’ 2012 Olympics displays to dazzle visitors

Boris Johnson has revealed plans to deliver a "jaw-dropping" visitor experience during the Olympics.

Inflatable boxers will float over the capital's skyline; a giant arch in the shape of a high-jumper will cross the Westway and a zip-wire is proposed for Trafalgar Square to add to the party atmosphere.

The Thames will be transformed into a dazzling Olympic display with new lighting for Tower Bridge and along the river banks. And a new boardwalk is planned for Southwark to make the south bank more accessible in time for the Games.

The Mayor also hopes the Royal Barge commissioned for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in 2012 will carry the Olympic torch on its final leg from Westminster to the Olympic Park in Stratford on the day of the opening ceremony.

Mr Johnson outlined his proposals at an Olympic summit attended by 2012 sponsors and marketing experts.

Keynote speakers at the summit, which was organised by the Evening Standard, were editor Geordie Greig and Sebastian Coe, chairman of the 2012 organising committee, Locog.

Mr Johnson said: "We are looking at the sort of things that are going to make the visitors' jaws drop and leave a lasting memory of the Games. Everyone knows this is the most exciting thing we are going to do in London in our lifetimes and we are incredibly privileged to be engaged in this project."

About £30 million has been earmarked in the Olympic budget for dressing the capital but cash from sponsors, who have paid £600 million for promotional rights, could ensure a real impact — and perhaps leave a permanent legacy, he said.

Lord Coe said the Standard, which reported on the 1908 and 1948 London Olympics, would become the first host city news-paper to cover three Games.