Just days after London received the Olympic flag from Beijing, Britain is preparing to host its first major event of the new Olympiad in an event that starts on September 3 and runs through until September 7.

 

The venue will house a temporary 2,000 seat grandstand, which is now almost completely built, and six additional playing courts.

 

Construction of the courts has involved transporting 1,150 tonnes a particular grade of sand, now called "Yellowave mix", from Reigate in Kent and closing off a section of Maderia Drive on Brighton seafront.  

 

Beach Volleyball proved to be one of the most popular and exciting events in Beijing, attracting a vibrant international fan base, which is also now expected to come to Brighton.

 

Teams from 28 different countries have entered, including the defending men's champions from
Italy and last years silver medal winning women's team from Australia. 

 

Britain will field five pairs, most of which are looking to gain their first taste of international beach volleyball, including 6ft 9inch Chris Gregory has been playing for only a short time having been recruited to the sport though UK Sport's Sporting Giants programme. 

 

Two tickets for the price of one are still available through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.co.uk/promo/gk6xgn.