There have been renewned efforts in recent months to move equestrian away from Greenwich Park and shooting from the Royal Artillery Barracks because of concerns over lack of legacy.

 

But Chris Roberts, the Leader of Greenwich Borough Council, said: "The people trying to move the events have an interest in moving them.

 

"There are vested interests at play here and we should see them off.

 

"I hope we can find absolute unanimity among the Council and throughout the community to defend the Olympic Games in Greenwich and secure its legacy in our Borough."

 

London 2012 officials have said on several occasions that they will not move the venues, claiming that they have the support of the international governing bodies.

 

More than 8,000 people have signed a Downing Street petition to change the venue for shooting to Dartford Clay Shooting Club, which is the preferred venue of British Shooting.

Campaigners claim the current venue at the Royal Artillery Woolwich Barracks will be a waste of £25 million.

Dartford Clay Shooting Club member Cliff Brookes, from Sevenoaks, said: "We have members that come from miles away, Sussex, Isle of Sheppey.

 

"It is a great asset and I cannot see why Woolwich is being chosen over Dartford.

"I encourage everyone to get behind this campaign to help make something amazing for the people of Dartford and shooters across the country."

 

Last week insidethegames reported that Dane Rawlins, the founder of dressage at Hickstead, said that she believes the cross-country phase of the three-day event in 2012 should be moved to the 400-acre Lee Valley Country Park at Leyton on the edge of London.