US divers create a splash in Sheffield

Making the announcement at the sports centre yesterday, Councillor Paul Scriven, leader of Sheffield Council, said that a "great deal of hard work" had gone into attracting the American team to Sheffield.

He said: "We all know that Sheffield has excellent facilities here at Ponds Forge.

"USA Diving are the most successful diving team when it comes to Olympic medals, and we are delighted that they have chosen a golden city to prepare for their golden medals.

"Sheffield's economy will grow as a direct result of hosting this team, generating tens of thousands of pounds into the city."

The city's economy is expected to be at least 50,000 richer as a result of the decision, with more being added if squad members' families and friends come too.

The team is the second to choose Sheffield as its base, following the announcement in May 2008 that the Serbian squad had chosen to use Sheffield and Leeds for pre-games training .

USA Diving director Steve Foley said: "Many venues within the UK and also throughout Europe were carefully considered but, in the end, the outstanding facilities of Ponds Forge and the English Institute of Sport, plus excellent hotels and the superb location for easy commute to and from London were the determining factors."