UKinbound chief executive Mary Rance has urged the government and the tourism industry to work together to put London riots "in context" and maintain the capital's global appeal.

Rance said that while events over the past three days presented a "most unfortunate" image of the UK, it was important to underline that such developments are "not typical".

"With scenes of looting, violence and lawlessness flashing across TV screens across the globe it is absolutely vital that the government and its agencies, as well as the UK tourism industry, work hard to put things in context," said Rance.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for London and Partners said: "It is currently too early to anticipate the effect on tourism and inward investment but we are monitoring the situation and we will work with the industry to respond to specific issues as they arise.

"Past experience tells us that London recovers very quickly from such events and we will focus on recovery activity as soon as it is viable to do so."

A spokesperson for the European Tour Operators Association said: "So long as the damage is contained outside of central London, then there will be little long-term impact on demand for London as a tourist destination."

Some sports events in the capital have been called off on police advise, including England's international football match against the Netherlands - due to be held at Wembley Stadium.

West Ham United, Charlton Athletic and Crystal Palace are among clubs to postpone their Carling Cup matches, along with Bristol City after trouble spread outside London.