Stansted’s Olympics preparations came under the spotlight on Friday when Eleanor Laing MP paid a visit to see how the airport intends to play its part during this year’s Games.

The Epping Forest MP, who was accompanied by Essex County Council’s Deputy Cabinet Member for the 2012 Games councillor Valerie Metcalfe, enjoyed a behind the scenes tour of the airport, a briefing with managing director Nick Barton and an update with Stansted’s Olympics co-ordinator Marie Rahim.

Mrs Laing said: “The London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games are a marvellous opportunity to show what Essex has to offer and can provide a real boost to jobs, businesses and in-bound tourism.

“My visit to Stansted demonstrated that the airport is fully prepared and ready to offer the best possible welcome to all those travelling through the airport this summer.”

Marie Rahim said: “We were delighted to welcome Eleanor and show her how we are gearing up for the Games.

“Stansted is delighted to be an official provider and is very proud to be one of the first to say ‘hello’ to the thousands of visitors and spectators arriving in the United Kingdom.”

In the run-up to the Games the airport has been working closely with a wide range of local community groups and charity organisations, the tourism industry, local authorities and business partners to help create a sense of fun and excitement.

In partnership with Essex County Council, Stansted played a vital role in the Essex cultural festival ‘Sparks will fly in Essex’.

The event saw larger than life mythical champion Boreas arrive at Stansted aboard a helicopter and begin a journey through Essex before meeting up with the Olympic torch relay in Chelmsford in early July.