Actually they can't win here. There will always be people that love them and people that don't.
They are aimed at kids and there is a whole story behind them, with children's author Michael Mupurgo engaged (that spelling is wrong but can't remember the right way!!)
I also think the fact that there is a separate one for the Paralympics is great and gives those games more identity and remember Britain did invent the paralympics. Interestingly the small group of people I have talked to have preferred Mandeville of the two.
The other item that will be love it or hate it will no doubt be the opening ceremony. To be honest I can't be bothered with all the subjective arty farty stuff. Bring on the sport that is what the games are really all about and with that what you see if what you get... well doping and bribery (no sports or countries mentioned) notwithstanding.
I think they are quite innovative. What else would we have gone for? Lion, Unicorn, Bulldog (tends to remind you of skinheads!), Welsh Dragon.
As I say a topic they can't win and they're certainly better than the logo 
