It was the start to the Games that few wanted, but many expected, as farce gave way to failure of truly epics propositions as security firm G4S revealed that they would not be able to provide the staff they assured Games organisers they would, and the military were drafted in to fill the 3000-man shortfall. 



“We were deeply disappointed that we had significant issues with the London 2012 Olympics contract and are very grateful to the military and the police for their support in helping us deliver a safe and secure Games,” G4S chief executive Nick Buckles has said of the debacle that has seen him hauled in front of MPs to explain the failure. 



“Clearly it is a big set back and we need to rebuild the brand over the coming months and years,” he added. 



Photo: Getty.