fun and games

Passions are running high in the Olympic Community over the preparations for the 2012 games. A decision by the British Olympic (London) Organising Committee to print the words 'English Channel' on the maps that will be given to competitors and high ranking officials has come under fire from all angles.

An unnamed Downing Street source said "The boss is going fucking mental. There are Nokias hitting walls all the time. The problem? He specifically stated that it would be called the British Channel in keeping with current policy of never ever using the words England or English. He's absolutely livid."

Meanwhile the French contingent, backed by the Belgians, the Germans and the Spanish, have suggested that unless the maps are reprinted with the name changed to their preferred 'La Manche' that they may well be unable to find their way to the games.

The Americans have their own concerns. "We helped you Brits out during the war" said a senior White House Aide "and yet not a single US base is remembered on this map. I think we might view that very dimly if it isn't corrected. We have already begun talks to stage our own games at the same time if y'all don't correct your mistake."

We managed to speak to one BO(L)OC member earlier. "We remain convinced that we have made the right decision. This type of event unifies nations and should not be used to drive them apart. The threats to withdraw from the games over such a minor issue are unprecedented."