London 2012 Olympics: Three Days To Go

The London 2012 Olympics are finally almost upon us. After seven years of planning, building and preparing, the Opening Ceremony will officially be opening the Games at the brand new Olympic Stadium on Friday. Here we have a round-up of all the latest news, including the opening events, some unusual statues and the weather finally turning.

Sunshine Appears in Time

After months of rain and floods spoiling the British summer, the sun has finally turned up just in time for the Olympics. Britain is expected to enjoy its hottest weather of the year this week, with forecasters predicting temperatures of over 30C (86F)- that's hotter than Hawaii. This good weather is expected to remain for much of August, though forecasters are predicting that heavy showers and even storms could afflict the Olympic Opening Ceremony.

A Met Office spokesman described how we face a "typical British summer" this weekend with unsettled conditions: "For Friday, it is still looking reasonably warm but at the same time there is a slight chance of a shower in the South but these showers should be few and far between".

Unusual Statues Popping Up (above)

83 ‘life-sized' statues of the Olympic mascots Wenlock and Mandeville have popped up around London in the last week. At all the most well-known landmarks in the city two-metre tall sculptures have appeared, each with a traditional British theme.

From the Cockney mascot, to an A-Z map of London inspired statue, to a beefeater Wenlock, there are all sorts. Keep an eye out for them as you walk round London.

Opening Events

There are over 25 gold medals to be handed out during the opening weekend alone, and a fair few British hopefuls will be attempting to get Team GB off to a flying start. To start things off, cyclist Mark Cavendish will be hoping to continue his good form from the Tour de France to challenge for the Men's Road Race on Saturday. Nicole Cooke (the winner from Beijing 2008) and Lizzie Armitstead will then be battling it out in the women's equivalent on Sunday, with both hoping to take a medal.

The swimming competitions dominate the first Sunday, and there are several Team GB hopefuls. Both Joanne Jackson and Rebecca Adlington will be hoping to take medals in the Women's 400m Freestyle, whilst Liam Tancock will be competing in the Men's 100m Backstroke.

For much more on the Olympics, its venues, mascots and athletes, have a look at our brilliant London 2012 section.

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