The announcement marks the first time a fashion designer has been put in charge of Olympic and Paralympic teams’ competition uniforms.

Adidas, which has designed and provided performance enhancing kit to Britain since Los Angeles in 1984, said McCartney was approached about the role of creative director "to ensure that British athletes at London 2012 don’t just have the best performance kit but the most stylish too".

The 38-year-old already designs a women’s sports range for the company.

McCartney, the second daughter of former Beatle Sir Paul and his first wife Linda, said: "As a British fashion designer it is an amazing, once in a lifetime opportunity to be creative director of Team GB as the hosting nation of the London 2012 Olympic Games."

Nick Craggs, marketing director for Adidas, said: “Adidas is bringing together the best British athletes performing at the Olympic and Paralympic Games with the best British designer and we are thrilled to have someone of Stella’s stature working with us in the run up to London 2012.

"This is the ultimate fusion of performance and style and we are delighted to further our relationship with Stella in this way."

As well as designing the uniforms for the Olympic and Paralympic teams McCartney will also design a range of fan wear so supporters can cheer on the athletes in British colours.

Olympic and world cycling champion Victoria Pendleton (pictured) was enthusiastic about McCartney's involvement. 

She said: "I'm a massive fan of Stella McCartney and with London hosting the Olympic Games it is really important as the host nation to set the standards.

"To have a British designer inputting into the British kit is going to be very special."

Andy Hunt, the chief executive of the British Olympic Association (BOA), added: "This apparel line provides an exciting opportunity for fans to connect with Team GB and show their pride and support for the athletes who will represent our nation during the 2012 Games.

"This partnership brings together the best in British design and creativity with Stella, the best in British sport through Team GB, and the best in performance technology through Adidas.

"We know that how an athlete looks and feels in their kit gives them a psychological advantage when competing, and we are delighted that Adidas has brought Stella onboard."

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