Eye firm's pledge over Olympics

The capsules are being upgraded two at a time

The Worcestershire firm which won a multi-million pound contract to upgrade the London Eye said it was confident it would be ready for the 2012 Olympics.

The first two capsules have arrived at UK Loco Ltd, near Pershore, from London to be fitted with new heating and entertainment systems.

David Singleton, from the company, said the deal gave it a firm foundation to grow from.

The 32 capsules would be upgraded gradually over two-and-half years.

Mr Singleton said the main aim was that the attraction was "absolutely, certainly ready" for visitors to London's Olympics.

Temporary capsules

The firm was "testing out things to improve the customer experience" for people as they enjoyed the views from the London Eye, he said.

He said the pods were being made "future ready" so they could accommodate new technology, such as the latest sound systems.

The 10-tonne capsules are being floated down the River Thames to Tilbury Docks in Essex before being transported to Worcestershire.

Temporary capsules, which do not carry visitors, will be used to replace each one while it is being worked on so the attraction can remain open.

Mr Singleton said UK Loco Ltd had carried out a number of projects for Merlin Entertainments Group, the owners of the London Eye.