Clapham has won an early gold in the forthcoming Olympics after being chosen as the venue for the Pride House to celebrate sexual diversity during the games.

The house which will be a hub for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community will be open in Clapham Common on July 26.

A spokesperson for Pride House said they chose Clapham for the venue as there is a large number of LGBT residents in the area, and it is the home of a diverse range of festivals.

The aim is to promote diversity and create awareness of homophobia in sport.

The idea was pioneered at the Vancouver winter Olympics but it is the first time an LGBT base has featured at a summer games and organisers are looking for local groups to get involved.

A programme of live music, exhibitions by LGBT artists and sports tournaments is planned, including special appearances from professional athletes.

There will also be big screens stationed around the venue broadcasting Olympic events and Pride House highlights.

Chad Molleken, executive director of Pride House said: "Next summer Pride House will welcome athletes, dignitaries, media, Londoners and visitors from around the world with a dynamic and entertaining programme in support of the LGBT community.

"It has been extremely rewarding to see the interest and engagement from organisations and individuals from around the world today.

The house is spearheaded by ambassadors NBA basketball player John Amaechi, author and campaigner Peter Tatchell and actor Stephen Fry."

Mr Fry said: "I'm very proud and pleased to be an ambassador for Pride House London.

"All eyes will be on London for the 2012 Games and Pride House is an idea that brings together so many of the elements that makes London one of the greatest cities in the world and a beacon of tolerance, diversity and pride."

For more information visit www.londonandpartners.com or email info@pridehouselondon.co.uk