Tony Blair has made a passionate promise that holding the Olympic Games in London would guarantee a sporting legacy for generations.

Speaking in Singapore ahead of tomorrow's decision over which country will host the 2012 Games, the prime minister said work would begin within 48 hours if the UK Capital is successful.

"The spirit of London 2012 will be the best spirit of the Olympic movement," he told a press conference.

"A love of sport, a belief in the ability of sport to bring people together, to educate, to enhance people's lives and a complete determination.

"If we are fortunate enough to host the Olympic Games we believe in something that doesn't just last for the few weeks of the Games but lasts for the generation to come."

London's plans for the Games, many of which will be carried out irrespective of whether the city hosts it, will regenerate a deprived area of East London. As well as new housing, thousands of jobs will be created.

Alongside Blair a host of sporting stars including David Beckham and Sven Goran Eriksson have arrived in Singapore for last minute schmoosing with International Olympic Committee (IOC) officials before tomorrow's final vote.

"It's going to inspire children. To give our children the chance to see an Olympics in our own country is a special thing - that's why I believe we should get it," said Beckham, who grew up in East London close to the site of the proposed Olympic Park.

London is competing with Paris, Madrid, New York and Moscow to host the world's biggest sporting event. Most commentators believe the UK and French capitals are neck-and-neck in the race to win.

During today's press briefing Blair refused to get involved in a row sparked by comments from French president Jacques Chirac.

In a private conversation heard by journalists, Chirac reportedly said the "only thing Britain has done for European agriculture is mad cow disease" and "after Finland, it is the country with the worst food."

Responding to the issue, Blair said: "I don't disrespect the other cities that are bidding. We should approach this in the right diplomatic spirit, which I do."

Following one-hour presentations by each city's bid team on Wednesday, the IOC will announce its final decision at 1246 BST.