Olympics boost for Manchester

One of the most influential figures in the Olympic movement has backed Manchester as a possible host for the 2012 Games.

Canada’s Dick Pound, vice-president of the International Olympic Committee, has been visiting Manchester during the Commonwealth Games.

Pound revealed he had voted for Manchester when Sydney won the right to stage the 2000 Olympics.

‘‘It would be a struggle but yes, it could,’’ Pound told the Daily Mail of Manchester’s capability of hosting an Olympics.

Pound admitted Manchester had made progress, leaving London behind in its standing in international sport.

‘‘It is easier for London because of the brand name. But London has got to get past the Charles Dickens stereotyping,’’ he said.

‘‘In cities like Manchester the changes have been extensive. In London a lot of infrastructure needs repairing, whereas here it’s all new.’’