Trafalgar Square fountains cascade in colour for 2012

Trafalgar Square's fountains have had a makeover to prepare for a spectacular 2012 Olympics light show.

Equipped with environmentally friendly LED lights, the fountains beneath Nelson's Column will provide a dazzling display for the Games.

The refurbishment of the Grade II-listed fountains is the latest stage in the transformation of the square. In addition, work on the three pumps which power the fountains will enable the plumes of water to cascade higher than has been seen for nearly 30 years.

On special occasions, the new pumps will allow the fountains to fire an 80-foot jet of water. But the most notable element of the refurbishment has been the installation of innovative green energy lighting, replacing the previous system, which was beyond repair.

The new system will also cut the carbon footprint of the fountain lighting by an estimated 90 per cent and save thousands on energy bills.