On the day when it was announced London 2012 had surpassed Beijing 2008 for Paralympic ticket sales, at 2.1 million, Boris Johnson attempted to do his bit to help sell the remaining half a million-plus seats available.

More tickets are to be made available before the Paralympics begin.

"One of the things that has taken off is the sense that this is an incredible place to be and hang out and people are enjoying going to the park," said Johnson.

"It has been suggested we keep it open after the Games are over.

"What I want to propose is that the obvious way to enjoy the park is to sign up as soon as they come online for the next half million slug of tickets for the Paralympics.

"That is your opportunity to get onto the Olympic Park (pictured) – it is going to be a wonderful experience."

Beijing 2008 sold 1.8 million tickets, while London 2012 had already sold the majority of those already bought prior to the Olympics.

The Olympics have spurred interest in the Paralympics, particularly given the controversy caused by the sight of empty seats after many found it difficult to get their hands on them during the original ballots.

The Paralympic Games get underway on August 29 and run until September 9.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]