Excitement about the world's greatest sporting event has failed to get off the starting blocks in Kent, a survey has revealed.

The 2012 Olympics may be a huge money-spinner and a major global attraction, but for people in Kent it is a bit of a damp squib so far.

A survey of 632 residents in the county, carried out by Kent-based independent market researchers Local Opinion, found many people are not at all bothered by the London games, and won’t be going to any trouble to see them in person.

More than half (53 per cent) of those questioned said were unlikely or very unlikely to attend the Olympics in the capital, with nearly two thirds crediting a general lack of interest in the sports and 26 per cent blamed poor transport links.

The survey also found that 73 per cent of people do not think London will have the necessary buildings and infrastructure ready for the international games by 2012.

Local Opinion research executive Julie Thompson said: “Although 58 per cent of those surveyed believe Kent will reap rewards from London hosting the Olympics, there still seems to be an element of doubt in some people’s minds as to whether the UK will be ready to host them come 2012.”

However, some felt people’s feelings will change as the games draw nearer and the county is swept up in the excitement of the international event.