Following the Badminton Wprld Federation's decision to award the 2011 World Championships to London, Mayor of London Ken Livingstone was quick to applaud BADMINTON England's successful bid.

The Mayor said today: “This is excellent news, showing that, as we build up to the 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic Games, London has established itself as city that can host major international sporting events.

"With more than 200 nations taking part in the Badminton World Championships, each competitor can be assured of the warmest of welcomes in the most international city in the world.

"They will also be able to explore London’s vibrant cultural offer, parks and unique monuments that give us an unparalleled profile on the world stage.”