Boris Johnson’s search for ‘ambassadors’ to welcome the world to London for next year’s Olympics is almost over, with double the number of applicants needed who are now being put through their paces.

The mayor confirmed today that he is ready to appoint the first ambassadors this autumn, to welcome five million visitors to London during the Games. Around 23,000 volunteered and 16,000 were invited for interview, from which 8,000 are being selected.