FIFTEEN local companies are already reaping the rewards of the Olympics coming to London in 2012.

John Armitt, CBE, chairman of the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA), was in Bolton on Tuesday to urge North-west firms to bid for the £6 billion-worth of contracts available.

He visited Watson Steel Structures Ltd, based in Lostock, which has been awarded a multi-million pound contract to create the steel structure for the stadium.

The company has revealed it has now passed on work to 14 other firms.

They will supply Watson Steel with everything from stationery and paint to transport and steel components.

The businesses are: Leighs Paints, 3DS, Alan Hindle Transport, B&D Structures, Beldam Crossley, Boss Stationery, BSB Engineering, Folsana, Jenkinsons, John Miles, M&G Fabrications, OHI and Pennington, all of Bolton. Lifting Gear Hire in Atherton is also involved.

Peter Emerson, managing director of Watson Steel, said: “We are delighted to be involved in the Olympics. It’s a fantastic project for Watson to have secured.

“We have a strong tradition of working with local companies and suppliers. It is a big opportunity for us to see the local community and economy benefit from our success.

“I would urge everyone with something to offer, whatever it is and however unrelated to construction and the Olympic Games, to register on the website competefor.com.”

Leighs Paints, based in Kestor Street, The Haulgh, is providing anti-corrosion and fire protection paint, which will be applied to the steel used in the stadium.

Anthony Ward, European sales manager, said: “We feel honoured to be involved in such a prestigious project as the Olympics.

“Our long-lasting partnership with Watsons and the wider group has helped ensure that we are a part of what is an enormous contract for us.”

The ODA is working alongside the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games to stage the Games and it is estimated 75,000 business opportunities will be available.