The ancient city of Athens has finally been given its modern makeover and after an absence of nearly 100 years the Olympic Games today return to their spiritual home.

Several months ago the city of Athens, was in disarray. But in a marathon makeover that many predicted impossible the city is finally ready for the biggest show on earth.

The games kick-off with a star studded opening ceremony that will be attended by some of the biggest names in the world of sport, politics and music .

Tonight's opening ceremony involves some 2,000 moving lights, utilising 22 miles of steel cable and will last for three and a half hours. It involves over 4,000 performers and promises be the greatest party Greece has ever seen.

Wales will of course be represented by 17 hopefuls, a few of whom will be in attendance as Team GB embark on the impressive Athens Olympic stadium. From today until August 29 a total of 10,500 athletes from 202 countries will participate in the Games.

Your Argus is proud to have already brought you exclusive coverage from the Team GB preparation camp in Cyprus and as the ONLY Welsh journalist in Athens I will bring you exclusive coverage of our Welsh hopefuls as they battle for medals in the greatest show on earth.