Olympics bringing economic boost to West Midlands

The 2012 Olympics have already provided an economic boost of £494.6m to the West Midlands, figures show.

Regional development agency Advantage West Midlands said more than 50 firms across Birmingham had already secured contracts in connection with the games.

The information was released at the launch of Meet Jamaica 2012 in Birmingham - a drive to increase trade between Jamaica and the UK.

The Jamaican track and field team are training in the city before the Games.

Mike Whitby, leader of Birmingham City Council, said: "We set out determined to demonstrate that 2012 will be an opportunity for the whole United Kingdom, not just London, and I believe we have done a formidable job."