And fears that home spectators might miss out on getting tickets because of demand from abroad have not been realised, with 96 per cent of registrations in the "Sign Up" programme so far coming from UK citizens.

The London 2012 organisers, which has deliberately not advertised the sign-up scheme outside Britain even though those within the European Union are eligible to join it, says that the majority of interest has come from London and the South East, which make up 32 and 27 per cent respectively of the figure so far.

Just under half of applicants - around 400,000 - have expressed interest in watching the Paralympics.

London 2012 chairman Sebastian Coe commented: "We are thrilled by the level of interest in our 'Sign Up' programme.

"What has been really interesting is that there has been significant interest across all Olympic and Paralympic sports. 

"It should come as no surprise that the British public is so enthused by the prospect of world class sport coming to these shores, but it is pleasing to see that some of the lesser-known Olympic and Paralympic sports are also set to be well supported.

"I would urge people to continue to sign up and ensure they are in the front row for information between now and 2012."

The scheme, which attracted 4,000 entrants within its first hour, can be accessed at www.tickets.london2012.com

Olympic tickets go on sale in spring 2011, with average price forecast to be between £40-£50 ($60-$76), and those who sign up will receive regular newsletters about sports events between now and 2012 and will be first to find out about when the sales process starts.

Contact the writer of this story on [email protected] 


Related stories
March 2010: London 2012 ticketing process opens
March 2010: London Assembly wants answers on tickets for 2012 Games
January 2010: Former England rugby international wins corporate hospitality contract for London
October 2009: Thomas Cook unveiled as £20 million London 2012 sponsor
July 2009: Ticketmaster appointed as ticketing supplier for London 2012