At London House in Beijing on Thursday, Olympians and officials representing major sporting events gathered to discuss the impact of such events on the societies and economies of the host cities.

Hosted by Anthony Hayward, Chairman and Co-Founder of the Newsmarket Company, the event lasted for one hour and grappled with the theme of why cities from all across the world compete with each other in order to win the chance to host mega-sporting events such as the Olympics?

In a lively discussion, panelists highlighted that the Olympic Games and other sporting events have a larger impact than just changing the infrastructure of the host cities.

On Sunday’s closing ceremony, the flame will be handed over to London’s Mayor. Fans and officials are already wondering just what will the 2012 London Games be like?

No doubt with all the interest and excitement generated from this 29th Olympiad its not just proud Beijingers who are looking forward to London’s time in the spotlight.