A new report on the impact of the Irish Special Olympics, which were held in Limerick last June, has found that they generated almost €10m in revenue for Limerick and Clare.

The report was commissioned by Special Olympics Ireland and Shannon Development to gauge the economic and social impact of staging big sports events in the region.

It found that the event was worth €9.95m in revenue.

The Olympics also gave a significant boost to the hotel and services sector, as 24,000 bed nights were utilised over the five-day event last June.

94% of those who attended the games said they would make a return visit to the city.

Special Olympics Ireland CEO Matt English said the real impact was the legacy and the social implications the games had, which went far beyond the five-day event.

He said they resulted in 2,429 new volunteers registering to help at the games, the formation of new Special Olympic clubs across the country, and the recruitment of more athletes.

The CEO of Shannon Development, Vincent Cunnane said the Special Olympics were the highlight of an outstanding sporting year in Limerick.

He said it augurs well for 2011 when Limerick will celebrate its position as European City of Sport.