GREENWICH Council has been slammed after spending £14,000 sending six officials to the Beijing Olympics while London's main Olympic host borough sent just four for £9,000.

A delegation of six officials from Greenwich Council were flown business class to Beijing, on August 12, at a cost of £14,000.

Greenwich will host nine sports in the London 2012 Olympic Games, including shooting at the Royal Artillery Barracks in Woolwich and equestrian events in Greenwich Park.

But Newham borough, where the 2012 Olympic park is being built, only sent four officials and spent £9,000 on economy class flights, hotels, and visa costs.

Trade union Unison has blasted the council for wasting taxpayers' money while council workers are still being refused a pay rise in line with inflation. Unison members are demanding a six per cent rise.

A Greenwich Unison spokesman said: "The pay dispute is still continuing and we can't see why it's necessary to send all of these people to Beijing.

"When we are being told there's no money it's amazing that they can afford to send six delegates to China."

Amongst the delegation were Greenwich Council leader Councillor Chris Roberts, cabinet member for the Olympics Councillor John Fahy, and council chief executive Mary Ney.

According to the council, the trip's cost will be met by delaying the appointment of a head of tourism.

But Tory councillor Andy Jennings has argued that the trip does not represent good value for taxpayers' money.

Cllr Jennings said: "A head of tourism would benefit the borough more. It seems that the council has got its priorities mixed up.

"I think investment in playing fields and participatory sports would provide a more long lasting legacy for the borough."

The council has defended the trip, claiming that the delegation stayed at the expense of Beijing's Chongwen District.

A council spokesman said: "The purpose of the trip was to learn about the impact of the games in preparation for 2012.

"The games provide a unique focus on Greenwich which the council is determined to use to promote the prosperity of the borough and its residents."