The stunning eveningwear shoot took place in anticipation of the 2011 BT British Olympic Ball, which is taking place at Kensington Olympia next month and is organised by the British Olympic Association (BOA) as a crucial fundraiser for Team GB.

The seven athletes in the shoot were Athens 2004 Olympic bronze medallist Kelly Sotherton, former Olympic gold medal-winning figure skater Robin Cousins, double Olympic gold medallist sailor Shirley Robertson, Olympic silver medallist diver Leon Taylor, gold medallist skeleton star Amy Williams and synchronised swimming pair Jenna Randall and Olivia Allison who are aiming to compete in their second Olympics for Team GB at London 2012.

"We are delighted that stars of past Games and today's Olympic hopefuls are receiving this level of publicity as it goes to show just how excited the nation is about the people behind London 2012," said BOA chief executive Andy Hunt, who will also be the Team GB Chef de Mission at the 2012 Olympics.

"The spectacular location of the BT Tower and the rare opportunity for the public to see another side of our athletes out of their training gear makes for a stunning photograph.

"The BT British Olympic Ball is going to be bigger and better than ever this year and it is shaping up to be a tremendous celebration of our Olympic talent."

The Ball is an important date for Olympic hopefuls as it is a vital opportunity for the BOA to help raise the estimated £13million ($21 million/€15 million) they need to send all 550 Team GB athletes to the London 2012 Olympic Games next summer.

In 2010, the Ball was attended by guests including Prince Harry and Zara Phillips, along with a number of British Olympians and sporting heroes, while a host of star names are expected to attend again this year.

Sir Clive Woodward, BT British Olympic Ball chairman, said: "The 2011 BT British Olympic Ball will take place exactly 42 weeks ahead of the London 2012 Olympic Games when the nation's excitement levels will be reaching fever pitch.

"It will be the ultimate pre-Olympic party and is the last chance to show your support for Our Greatest Team - Team GB in advance of London 2012."

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