Mandela?s endorsement is important because Mandela enjoys unrivalled standing and recognition across the world.

His announcement also reflects the close ties between British and South African sport ? the Football Association were big supporters of the successful 2010 World Cup bid, sending out the England team to help the campaign, and there is also a written Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries about developing sporting links.

You too can show your support for the London 2012 bid by clicking here.