London 2012 Olympics: Athletes begin to arrive for Games

The first competitors are due to take up residence in the athletes' village for the London Olympics on Monday. 

The Village in Stratford, east London, opens with GB athletes competing in diving, equestrian, football, shooting and swimming expected to be the first to enter.

Heathrow Airport is braced for a record number of passengers, while the first of the Olympic Games Lanes – on the M4 from the airport into London – comes into operation.

The west London airport expects to handle 236,955 passengers – breaking the previous record of 233,562 set on July 31 last year.

The M4 lane, which will be in operation between 5am and 10pm, is being introduced early to cope with the beginning of the big rush.

London 2012 chairman Sebastian Coe said it was vital that the capital make a good impression on the first group of athletes arriving. 

"Teams from all over the world are coming to London and the athletes’ village will become their home throughout the Games," he said.
"Some of them will be coming to London for the first time; others will be competing at their first Games so first impressions will count for a lot."
The first Team Welcome Ceremonies take place on Monday as athletes begin to arrive at the village. The ceremonies are designed to formally welcome the athletes and team officials to the Games and take place prior to the opening ceremonies.
Several ceremonies are set to take place every day and over 200 national anthems have been arranged by British composter Philip Sheppard and recorded by the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
The ceremonies have been created produced and choreographed by the National Youth Theatre of Great Britain, who will also perform the shows, which consist of dance and music.
The Team Welcome Ceremonies will also feature the playing of the national anthems and the raising of flags by members of the Armed Forces.