Hong Kong Olympic chief Timothy Fok Tsun-ting said London's victory had not come as a surprise to him.

'They are very capable and the 2012 Olympics could be one of the best,' said Fok, one of the International Olympic Committee members who cast their votes in Singapore yesterday. 'People keep saying Paris is the favourite, but London also has good quality. Their presentation was also excellent and must have gained many undecided votes.'

Though Fok refused to disclose for which city he voted in the final round between London and Paris, he said he usually made the correct decision, hinting that he cast his vote for the British capital.