Dame Tessa has told Labour leader Ed Miliband and her colleagues that she is standing down from the Shadow Cabinet following the culmination of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. 

The 64-year-old was the most significant political driving force behind the Games.

As Culture Secretary she persuaded a sceptical Tony Blair's Cabinet in 2003 to bid for the Games in the face of fierce opposition at the time, particularly from then Chancellor Gordon Brown who thought it would be a waste of money.

Dame Tessa's indefatigable lobbying - both at home and abroad with International Olympic Committee members - played a massive role in London being awarded the Games ahead of Paris, who were the favourites right up until the final announcement. 

She was given the additional role as Minister for the Olympics when the Games were awarded to London in July 2005, a post she held until the 2010 General Election, which Labour lost.

In opposition, she held the post of Shadow Olympics Minister.

Tributes to Dame Tessa were led by Hugh Robertson, the Conservative who was appointed Minister for Sport and the Olympics when they succeeded Labour.

Tessa Jowell, pictured here with David Beckham, was instrumental in London being awarded the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics by the IOC at its Session in Singapore in 2005

"I'd like to pay tribute to Tessa's excellent work on the Olympic and Paralympic Games," he said.

"Not only did she play a vital role in the winning bid team but she laid the foundations for a successful Games, which was recognised in this year's Queen's birthday honours [when she was made a Dame].

"I was pleased that, with the cross-party approach to the Games, Tessa continued to be involved throughout, with a position on the [London 2012] Olympic Board and as deputy mayor of the Athletes' Village during the Olympic Games.

She took on both roles with her usual enthusiasm and expertise." 

Miliband also paid tribute.

"Her legacy is enormous,"he said.

"What we have seen at the London 2012 would not have been possible without Tessa's determination and dedication both in championing the bid and playing a major role in delivering the Games.

"For this the whole country owes her a huge debt of gratitude."

Jowell, who will continue to serve as an MP for Dulwich and West Norwood, said she would always look back on her role in London 2012 with great fondness.

"To have been able to be part of planning and delivering the Olympic and Paralympic Games from start to finish is a rare opportunity in public life and that too has been a privilege," she said.

"After 10 years with the Olympics and Paralympics it is job done.

"Our country has changed this summer and for the better because of the power of the British people, the Games Makers and our great Olympic and Paralympic athletes." 

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