Jeremy Hunt praises Surrey for Olympic camp attraction

Jeremy Hunt praised Surrey's efforts

Surrey has been praised by a government minister for "blazing a trail" in its preparations for London 2012.

Jeremy Hunt, secretary of state for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport, praised the county for attracting teams to train in Surrey before the Games.

Nigeria, Antigua and Barbuda, the Cayman Islands, the Croatian Paralympic team and Australian cyclists team will train at Surrey Sports Park, Guildford.

The Olympic cycling road race will also wind its way through the county.

He said Surrey "has probably done better" than any authority outside London in terms of attracting teams.

"The best present is the road races," he said.

"Surrey residents will be able to see an Olympic event for free on their doorsteps and that is a great tribute to Surrey County Council.

"The test event was amazing and next year will be a great British festival."

Denise Saliagopoulos, Surrey County Council's cabinet member for community services and the 2012 Games, said it was "fantastic" praise.