In the weeks and months leading up to the Games, teams from around the world will be training and preparing for the competitions. While some teams will train in their home countries, others will use facilities in the UK for pre-games training camps.

Two West Sussex consortia submitted bids for their facilities to be approved for pre-games training camps: Chichester Gold and Gatwick Diamond Venues.

London 2012 has announced that the University of Chichester, the Goodwood Estate, and the Oaklands Park Archery Range, all part of Chichester Gold, have been approved as meeting the standards to host pre-games training camps.

In addition, the Gatwick Diamond Venues of The All England Jumping Course, Hickstead, K2 Crawley, East Grinstead Sports Club, Olympos Burgess Hill, Broadbridge Heath Leisure Centre, and Pavilions in the Park, Horsham, have been approved.

All nine venues will now be included in the 'Pre-Games Training Camp Guide', which will be available from August to aid National Olympic Committees to identify suitable facilities and sites for their training camps.

A London 2012 Steering Group carried out the assessment, which included the British Olympic Association and other UK sporting bodies.

Councillor Nick Thomas, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Sport at Chichester District Council, said: "I am delighted that venues from the Chichester District will be included in the London 2012 training camp guide as they have worked hard to achieve this official recognition. This provides a marvellous opportunity for our community to share in the Olympic spirit. We would warmly welcome the chance to host an Olympic or Paralympic squad ahead of the 2012 Games, and by using our impressive range of facilities, competitors will enjoy top class preparation before heading to London and possible Olympic glory."

West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy Louise Goldsmith said: "We will be working hard to encourage teams to come to West Sussex, and to ensure they have the best opportunity to train, prepare and experience what we have to offer."

In addition to the training camp activities, all Chichester Gold and Gatwick Diamond Venues are working together to organise a broad range of community activities inspired by 2012.

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