"Britain Bound", a first-of-its kind, interactive programme that will see five Olympic and two Paralympic champions come to Britain in the autumn and visit some of the country's best-known landmarks was launched at a special "One Year to Go" countdown party at New York's Lincoln Center.

The athletes, who include Clay, the Olympic decathlon champion, and gymnastics gold medallist Nastia Liukin, will travel to a variety of places.

Besides London, they will visit Manchester, Cardiff and Weymouth and Portland - who will alll stage events during London.

Jeremy Campbell, the 2008 Paralympic discus and pentathlon champion, and Allison Jones, who has won medals in both the Summer and Winter Paralympics, will visit Mandeville, the birthpalce of the Paralympics.

Clay, meanwhile, will visit the Scotland and participate in The Highland Games while others will go to Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

The programme's interactive website will also give fans the chance to share their ideas on what the athletes should see and do when they arrive in Britain.


Other athletes part of the scheme include Henry Cejudo, the 2008 Olympic wrestling champion; Heather Mitts, a two-time Olympic gold medallist in football and Rebecca Soni. the Olympic 200 metres breaststroke champion.

"With the Olympics only one year away, I can't wait for our Team USA: Britain Bound trip and to get to visit the Olympic venues and take in some of the famous sites," Liukin said.

"We're so excited to get to know the host country in a new light and to share all of our adventures with everyone back here in the US"

With VisitBritain, acting as host and tour guide, Team USA athletes will visit locations in England, Scotland and Wales.

They will ll pay homage to the proud sporting tradition, unique history and diverse culture of Great Britain while celebrating the upcoming London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

"We're delighted to be able to bring the host nation to life for Team USA fans ahead of the London 2012 Games," said Karen Clarkson, VisitBritain's vice president, North America.

"Some of the biggest names from the US Olympic and Paralympic Teams will be exploring the very best of Britain, from Inverness in Scotland right down to Weymouth in England and Cardiff in Wales.

"It's a fantastic way for Team USA supporters to whet their appetite for the 2012 action we have in store - and a great way to get Team USA ready for next year."

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