Research by Canterbury Christchurch University suggests that 'festival effects' will be the key to securing a lasting legacy for the 2012 Olympic games.

The findings, compiled by a panel of experts from the university, show that the Olympics should be harnessed to initiate a wave of smaller events and physical activities.

The findings also show that children will be a group most keen to get active as they are likely to want to emulate role models emerging from the games.

Professor Mike Weed, who was in charge of the review on behalf of the university's centre of sport, said: “The findings of this report will help to ensure that initiatives designed to capitalise on the physical activity, sport and health benefits of the 2012.

“Olympic and Paralympic Games are informed by the best available evidence from around the world. The findings show that initiatives need carefully planning and should be tailored for different target groups”.

Professor John Newton, the regional director for public health for the south east welcomed the review, added: “This review will help us to secure a true and lasting health and physical activity legacy from the 2012 Olympic Games. It has clearly set out the lessons learned from the best available international evidence”.