London’s success benefits Ireland

LONDON’S successful bid to host the 2012 Olympic Games will have enormous benefits for Ireland, according to leading sport and political figures in this country.

The English capital yesterday won a two-way fight with Paris by 54 votes to 50 at the International Olympic Council meeting in Singapore, after bids from Moscow, New York and Madrid were eliminated.

Officials north and south of the border expect to reap rewards, in sporting, fiscal and tourism terms, following the announcement.