London Games Festival attracts 76,000

The London Games Festival has recorded a record number of attendees, attracting 76,000 members of the press, industry, parliament and public.

The month of events, which opened with the Eurogamer Expo at Earl's Court on October 1 and finished with a launch party for We Sing: Robbie Williams on November 4, was summarised by a speech from the Minister for Culture, Communications and Creative Industries, Ed Vaizey, a long-term supporter of the UK games industry.

"I'm pleased to have been able to take part in this year's London Games Festival and show my support. The LGF has been a month-long celebration of video games, it's a key part of the industry calendar and incredibly important in promoting the industry's strengths," Mr Vaizey told listeners at the London Games Conference.

"The games industry is hugely successful economically but I also want it to be recognised for its positive influence, its creativity and innovation and cultural contribution. Hopefully I will be invited back next year."

Director of the festival, Kirsty Payne, also addressed how successful the festival had been, adding: "With such a wide range of things to see and do on offer, it's no surprise that so many tens of thousands have taken part," said Payne.

"We've seen people from all ages and backgrounds join in and help prove that the games industry in the UK, and indeed in London, is flourishing and has a lot to offer. Yet again it has been proven that the industry is a vital part of this country's economy and I look forward to how the London Games Festival can continue to represent that in upcoming years."