Windfall as Olympics come to Dorney lake

Already the it has been revealed that the location for the Olympic rowing event is set to be Dorney Lake, near Eton, which officials predict will see thousands of curious rowers and tourists descending on the town until 2012.

The success of the Olympic bid came as Marlow's Sir Steve Redgrave led a group of high profile athletes in support of Lord Sebastian Coe.

Jo Braybrooke, president of Marlow Chamber of Trade and Commerce, said that the Olympics would provide a major boost for traders.

She said: "I'm sure a lot more people will come to see us for the Marlow Town Regatta as well as the event in Dorney.

"In to the run up people will want to come and see whereabouts the rowing will be held.

"Even though it is not being held directly in Marlow they will want to see the area."

Marlow mayor Cllr Roger Wilson, praised Sir Steve for his role in the bid and said schools would also profit.

He said: "It will have a positive and beneficial effect on Marlow and the schools in the area.

"One of the knock-on effects is that children will start playing more games at schools, which is a habit that is beginning to die out."

Wycombe district councillor Alex Collingwood (Marlow North and West), said: "I think what will happen to both regattas is that the entries internationally will increase in the town and at the rowing event in Dorney. This will be huge benefit."

Sir Steve's personal assistant, Melanie Clift, told the Free Press that the result had been "an emotional time" for the gold medal winner.

She said: "He thinks it is going to be a task for seven years but they will all be up for the challenge. Personally I think there is no one else to carry the torch."

Sir Steve was seen embracing England captain David Beckham as the result was read out in Singapore last Wednesday. Many town leaders told the Free Press that they hope he will carry the torch in the run up to the games or even in the ceremony.