London 14 November 2004 – As London’s bid to bring the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games to London in 2012 moves into a new phase of marketing and promotion, Chairman Sebastian Coe today announced the appointment of John Jarvis CVO, CBE to work with the bid team on key projects over the next six months.

Former Chairman of Hilton International (Worldwide) Hotels (1987-1990) and the British Hospitality Council (2000-2001) and Board Member of both the British Tourist Authority (1995-2000) and the English Tourist Board (1983-1996), John is regarded as one of the UK’s leading experts in hospitality and tourism.

John is currently Chairman of Ramada Jarvis Hotels and Non-Executive Chairman of Sandown Park Race Course. He was also one of the founding members of the Prince’s Trust Events where he was Chairman from 1991-2000.

John will report directly to Chairman Sebastian Coe and work across a number of key projects including the evaluation commission visit in February, corporate advice and liaising with retail and tourism organisations.

Commenting on the appointment, Chairman Sebastian Coe said:

‘We are entering a crucial time for the bid. The candidate file, which is our technical bid, is presented to the International Olympic Committee tomorrow. The focus from now to July 2005 is to sell our vision for an Olympic Games and Paralympic Games in London. John’s experience in marketing Britain, England and a wide range of corporations and events will be invaluable to us during this phase.’

Commenting on his appointment, John Jarvis CVO, CBE said:

‘Being able to help bring the world’s biggest sporting event to the UK is a once in a lifetime opportunity for me and for everyone around the country. The hard work on the Candidate File has been done. The bid team has produced an impressive technical bid that the country can be proud of. We now need to make sure everyone in the UK and the voters within the IOC can see why London should be hosting these Games in 2012. I am delighted to play my part in helping to make this happen.

For further information please call the London 2012 Press Office on 020 7093 5100.