People in Leicester are being urged to back the London Olympic 2012 bid by signing a huge flag. The petition of wellwishers from around Leicester will be handed to Lord Coe who will take it to Singapore to help convince international sports bosses to bring the games to Britain. City council officials said signing the flag would show both the bid organisers and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) how much Leicester wants the games in London.

The petition was launched by city council leader Ross Willmott. Speaking at the Women in Sport and Physical Activityconference at Braunstone Leisure Centre, he said: "The more cities that do something the more chance we have of getting the bid."Getting the games will be a great boost to the country."

Leicester Mercury deputy editor Kay Drummond, also at the event, said: "If London gets the Olympics in 2012, we shouldn't underestimate the knock-on effects it could have."With Leicestershire positioned so near to London, and with all the sporting clubs and facilities we have, we will gain more than most. We are proud to back the bid and we encourage everyone to do the same."

If you want to join the sign the flag campaign call the Leicester Mercury on 0116 222 4268 or Steve Humphries on Tel: (0116) 2333052 . Alternatively register your support by texting LONDON to 82012.