Competing as individuals in five separate events - men's singles, women's singles, men's and women's doubles and mixed doubles - the championships will see around 400 of the world's top players representing five continents, and all vying for the title of World Champion.

Held at the Wembley Arena - the same venue for badminton and rhythmic gymnastics at the London 2012 Olympics - this will be the third time England has hosted the World Championships, but only the first time they have been staged in London, as they were previously held in Birmingham in both 1993 and 2003.

First established in 1977 and originally held every two years, the World Championships has been held every year since 2003, except Olympic years.

"We are delighted that demand for tickets for the greatest badminton event in the world has been so huge and it underlines the popularity of the sport in this country and across the globe," said Adrian Christy, the chief executive of Badminton England. 

"This event is part of the qualification period for London 2012 and fans buying tickets for the World Championships will see the very best in the world compete with one year to go.

"The World Championships will be badminton as you have never seen it before and the atmosphere will be fantastic – we look forward to welcoming everyone to Wembley Arena this August."

The Mayor's official promotional agency, London & Partners is highlighting the Championships as an ideal way for both Londoners and visitors coming to the capital this summer to see world-class athletes in action.

"This is London's first ever World Badminton Championships yet another key milestone in London's long-term vision to be the most exciting major events city in the world," said Iain Edmondson, the head of the major events team at London & Partners.

"With the top international players here a year before the main event this summer's Championships will be a fantastic sporting event which will both inspire and excite both Londoners and visitors to the capital.

The competition takes place from August 8 -14 and there are a variety of supporters' packages available for the event from its official travel partner Gullivers Sports Travel.

For more information click here.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]