THOUSANDS of jobs are likely to be created in Kent in the seven year run-up to the 2012 Olympic Games in London, it has been predicted.

Business and council leaders say the decision would give a massive boost to local industry, commerce and tourism.

Sandra Matthews-Marsh, chief executive of Kent Tourism Alliance, said: "It’s the biggest thing that’s happened to tourism in Kent in the last 100 years."

Early forecasts suggest that the Games will be worth many millions of pounds to the Kent economy, with "thousands of temporary and voluntary jobs created".

Businesses in the right sectors will be able to compete for contracts. Tourism is set to benefit, with a million more visitors expected in 2012 than in a typical year.

The effects are expected to last long after the two-week sporting fiesta, with Kent becoming more recognised worldwide as a tourist destination.

KCC is expected to ask consultants to look in more detail at the likely benefits of the Games.