AS the world turns its gaze on Britain for the start of the London Olympics, they will be the ones providing those taking part with their first taste of the games.

Pupils from three Southampton schools have been chosen to help form the guard of honour for the thousands of athletes as they make their way from the Olympic Village to the brand-new Olympic Stadium for the opening ceremony.

Groups of youngsters from Bassett Green Primary School, Oasis Academy Mayfield and Sholing Technology College will line the route, holding lanterns and banners they have created, to support one of the 204 competing nations.

Each school has been allocated a team to back, with the aim of providing a warm welcome for the athletes. Bassett Green head teacher Liz Filer will join PE teacher Brian Medway and eight Year 5 pupils in the guard of honour. The youngsters have been chosen as a reward for attendance and behaviour, but Mrs Filer said she hoped the whole school will benefit.

At Sholing Technology College, pupils will mark World Sport Day, on June 25, with a series of events looking at the Olympics.