Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park opens to public - and Prince Harry and Boris Johnson among first visitors

Prince Harry joined Mayor of London Boris Johnson today on a visit to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park on the eve of its official opening.

The park opens to the public for the first time since the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games tomorrow from 10am.

The prince and Mr Johnson met outside the Aquatics Centre and began a walk around the park to meet local schoolchildren at the riverside play area and speak to the teams involved in transforming the area in the last 18 months.

The development has been led by the London Legacy Development Corporation.

The 114.5m high ArcelorMittal Orbit lies at the centre of the new park and there will be future ventures with the Victoria and Albert Museum and University College London.

Visitors will also be able to view the interactive water fountains and an action-packed adventure playground.

The mayor said the opening marked an historic chapter in London's post-Olympic story.

Mr Johnson said: "Our city's newest park is crammed with spectacular attractions and activities set in acres of stunning green spaces.

"This is now a must-see destination for Londoners and visitors alike and forms a glittering centrepiece for our ambitious regeneration plans in Stratford and beyond."

PA