Liberal Democrats in Harlow have welcomed the success of the London bid to host the Olympic Games in 2012.

Local Lib Dem leader Cllr Chris Millington says: "This is tremendous news, with the prospect of significant benefits for Harlow. It's a boost for local athletes already training for 2012, for local sporting groups and for young people".

Harlow's 2005 parliamentary candidate Lorna Spenceley - already on record as backing the bid - also welcomed the news. "The success of the London bid presents real opportunities to put Harlow on the map," she said.