Former Banking sponsors of the Athens 2004 and Sydney 2000 Games have sent messages of congratulations to London 2012 and Lloyds TSB following this we

The sponsors underlined the benefits an association with the Games brought to their business.

Hector P Verykios, who managed Alpa Bank's sponsorship of Athens 2004, said: "We are very proud to have been a Grand National sponsor and the Official Bank of the Athens 2004 Games.

"This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience which has transformed our business like no other opportunity could and will remain unforgettable in the minds of all our employees, clients and shareholders.

"Rarely does a project involve so many staff members from all sectors of the Bank, last more than four years and culminate in just two wonderfully hectic weeks. It was great for our business, for our customers and for the country.

"We would like to wish Lloyds TSB and London 2012 all the best in the years leading to the successful completion of the London 2012 Games.

Noel Purcell from Sydney 2000 sponsor Westpac Bank said: "To be a Games sponsor in your home country brings benefits to customers, staff and shareholders.

"It's the biggest show on earth and a one-off opportunity to be involved in an event that brings joy to billions of people.

"It's the years leading up to the event that makes this sponsorship so unique.

"We were a proud sponsor of the Sydney Games. It was a huge motivator for staff and many of our customers had a wonderful experience.

"I'm sure it will be a great journey for Lloyds TSB and something that will form part of that bank's long history."