Sir Chris Hoy chosen to carry Great British flag

The cycling legend secured the most votes among the 542 members of the British team.  Hoy said: “I’m absolutely delighted and honoured to have been voted as the flag bearer for Team GB.

“To lead out your team at a home Olympics is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and one that that I can’t wait to experience in just a few days’ time.”

Hoy won four medals at the Beijing Games in 2008 and was the chosen flag-bearer for the closing ceremony. In London, Hoy will compete in the team sprint and keirin events.

Hoy added: “I’m still in shock, it’s all sinking in. I’m just looking forward to Friday.  To have the athletes vote for you, it makes it even more special. This will be my first experience of an opening ceremony so for a number of reasons it will be very special.”

Dean Mears, sports editor