Now let's go for it: Foster rallies team GB

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The 38-year-old swimmer will lead out the 312-strong squad in today's opening ceremony at the Bird's Nest Stadium ahead of their bid to soar up the medal table.

Britain finished 10th in Athens four years ago but Foster believes progress in swimming, along with continued excellence in rowing, sailing and cycling are major causes for optimism.

A veteran of four previous Olympics, Foster has been providing younger talent with the benefit of his experience as they try to cope with the pressure of world sport's biggest stage.

He said: "It's like nothing else on earth, a wonderful experience and they should make the most of it. The best piece of advice I can give anyone is to walk out there with their heads held high and enjoy it.

"I don't want to put a figure on it, but we have got a few good chances, particularly on the women's side which is great because it's generally been the men getting the medals in the past few years. I'm very optimistic."

Funding body UK Sport have set their sights on at least 35 medals - including 12 golds - for a chance to achieve an overall target of 8th place in the medal table.

British Olympic Association chairman Colin Moynihan said: "We have a strong team that is better than ever. It is better financed than ever, better resourced than ever and I think these athletes will deliver the goods and we will move significantly forward from tenth place we achieved in Athens - though it would be unwise to say how great the improvement will be."