A GIANT image of world champion heptathlete Jessica Ennis will welcome millions of visitors flying into Heathrow alongside the words "Welcome to our turf."
In the run up to the London 2012 Olympic Games, thousands of British fans will be met by a giant painting of the British gold contender, reminding overseas athletes only one country has the home advantage.
The artwork created by British Airways at Thornbury Playing Fields in Isleworth and measures 53 by 75 metres.
More than over 600 litres of red, white and blue weatherproof paint were used for the image - which is the size of 15 tennis courts and 193 London buses.
A proud Jessica Ennis, said: “I’m thrilled to be the first face that people will see arriving into the UK for the London 2012 Games. I hope it brings excitement to homecoming Brits, and reminds international athletes that we’re ready and prepared! ‘We have the most dedicated fans in the world, who will get behind us every step of the way to give us a home advantage.’’
BA expects to fly 50,000 ex-pats back to the UK this summer for the Olympics.
British Airways sponsorship manager, Luisa Fernandez, added: “Whether you’re a Brit coming home, or an athlete arriving in for the London 2012 Games, this celebratory message reminds us all of the power of the home crowd and how important it is to get behind Team GB and ParalympicsGB.”
An estimated 600,000 visitors from overseas are excepted to visit the capital during the Games. The image will be on display until July 17th, with the day before expected to be when most competing athletes will arrive.
