With many athletes eschewing drink and partying during the London Games, and others not having time to enjoy themselves outside of their events, some have resorted to more extreme reminders of their time in London.

London's tattoo parlours may be set for a roaring trade in inking the famous rings onto the bodies of the world's finest athletes.

American swimmer Missy Franklin, for example, is too young to drink, and so has vowed to reward herself with some body art following her events instead.

Olympic tattoos have become increasingly popular in recent years. Michael Phelps has one that peaks out from his swimming trunks while others have them between their shoulder blades, at the base of the neck, on the hips or even on their feet.