torch on Giant's CausewayJulien Behal/PA Wire/Press Association Images

About 22% of the population came out to see part of the Olympic torch relay, and a further 9% plan to visit sites where the torch was paraded, VisitEngland has said.

The tourist body added that around 21% of the adult population intend to take at least one holiday or short break in the UK by the end of this month. This tourism is likely to generate around £2.3 billion.

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But VisitEngland said that around 22% of people are undecided about their summer holiday plans, with 39% of these worried about the financial situation and 28% concerned about the weather.

VisitEngland chief executive James Berresford said: "I'm delighted that more than 10 million people are planning to holiday at home this summer.

"If we convert even half of those who are undecided about taking a summer break in England, we could potentially contribute an additional £600 million to the UK economy."

VisitEngland is already looking forward to another big sporting event to be staged in the UK - the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

The Rugby League World Cup in is taking place in England next year, while England will also host the 2019 Cricket World Cup.

VisitEngland said: "The impact of these events, particularly the Olympic and Paralympic Games, will benefit generations for years to come."

© 2012 Press Association