Business leaders in the region will today be urged to back London's bid for the 2012 Olympics as the campaign enters its final 25 days.

Alan Clarke, chief executive of regional development agency One NorthEast, will announce 25 reasons why the Olympic and Paralympic Games will benefit the region.

Top of the list is the creation of an estimated 7,000 jobs in the construction industry, with opportunities for North-East companies to tender for contracts and supply skilled labour.

It is also anticipated that overseas sports fans would visit the region during their Olympics trip.

Mr Clarke said: "Regardless of the outcome of the bid, there will be a wealth of tender opportunities across the whole spectrum of business to take advantage of.

"The clock is ticking and I would strongly urge local companies to start looking at what is on offer and to get a head start on their competitors."

Ross Cordiner, deputy international trade director for UK Trade and Investment North East, said: "The potential long-term business opportunities linked to the games is significant. The Olympic Games provides a unique platform for companies to showcase their products and services to the world and this will help to secure future contracts."

St James' Park, in Newcastle, is one of six venues outside the capital that has been earmarked to stage the Games' football tournament.

The International Olympic Committee's will make its decision on July 6.

Fifteen per cent of the criteria is based on the amount of support London receives nationally.