Three-times Olympic medalist Kriss Akabusi believes 2012 is going to be an exciting year for both West Ham United and east London as a whole.

The 400m hurdle and relay champion has been a Hammers fan for more than 40 years and was back at the Boleyn Ground to act as guest stadium announcer ahead of the 2-1 npower Championship victory over Nottingham Forest.

Now a motivational speaker, Akabusi got the crowd going in his own unique and enthusiastic style - an experience he enjoyed so much that he is planning to do it all again soon.

The 53-year-old is equally enthusiastic about West Ham's chances of gaining promotion and of east London's prospects of hosting a successful 2012 Olympic Games.

"I absolutely loved it, especially when they gave me the team sheets and said 'Go on Akabusi, have some fun!'" he told West Ham TV. "I called out the players' names in my own little style, so Jeremy, I'm coming back for you next week son!"

"I've been a West Ham fan since 1969. I've seen thh ups and the downs with West Ham. Our song says it all 'like my dreams they fade and die. You are part of a family down here. It's great to support a great club.

"I'm hoping this year we'll win the Championship and then, next year in the Premier League, not be vying to avoid relegation but to be in the mid-table."

While he cannot wait for London 2012, Akabusi did admit that he would love to be at an age that would allow him to compete at the Games himself.

A medalist at both Los Angeles 1984 and Barcelona 1992, the Paddington-born runner knows this year's Olympics will create a whole new generation of sporting stars.

"I was competing 20-odd years ago and had a great career. I just wish I was 20 years younger and could compete again in London. It's going to be tremendous.

"The partisan crowd will give Team GB a 25 per cent uplift. For this area, it's going to be phenomenal. You've already seen how the landscape has changed and can see the excitement in the area.

"In four or five months it will be ramped up as we have the greatest Games on Earth in our back yard. Superstars will be made. Hopefully we can carry on that energy and excitement to West Ham next season.

"We obviously love football down here, but there will be stars made in all sorts of different sports. I've been working with a handball team and there are a couple of really good players. I just hope that, when it comes down here - cycling, rowing, running, throwing or whatever - that we will get on board and support the boys and girls who are representing our country."

To watch Kriss Akabusi's interview in full, including his admiration for Hammers penalty-taker Mark Noble, log on or subscribe to West Ham TV today.