The countdown has begun to the biggest canoeing event to be held in the area since 2012.

Thousands of spectators are expected at the International Canoe Federation Canoe Slalom World Cup event at Lee Valley White Water Centre near Waltham Abbey from June 6 to 8.

Double Olympic silver medallist David Florence moved to Loughton in 2011 to train at the 10,000 capacity facility ahead of the games and will compete in next month’s event.

He said: “It’s great to have the best canoeists in the world coming here and hopefully it will inspire people to get involved in the sport.

“Some events abroad have an incredible support and atmosphere and it will be good to have that at Lee Valley.”

Lee Valley Regional Park Authority Chief Executive Shaun Dawson said: “The event will attract people from all over London as well as the athletes which will be good for the local economy.

For more information and to get tickets for the ICF Canoe Slalom World Cup 2014, click here.