Sailing team says thanks a bunch after welcome

By Justin Palmer

QINGDAO, China (Reuters) - Say it with flowers! A delegation from the British sailing team being welcomed into the Qingdao Olympic Village avoided an embarrassing moment on Thursday thanks to a nearby florist.

Officials were about to greet Qingdao team village chief Zang Aimin when they were told they were expected to handover a gift.

While officials from other teams handed over pennants and other souvenirs, the British, who arrived empty-handed, dashed to a nearby florist and purchased a bunch of red roses.

The gift proved an inspired purchase.

"After much laughter from Chinese journalists we were told it was Chinese Valentine's Day today," said a team spokeswoman. "She (Zang) was delighted."

(Editing by Greg Stutchbury)