With the London 2012 Olympics still two years out,  England's bureaucratic city planners and the skeptic public have yet to embrace beach volleyball being competed within a scone's throw of Buckingham Palace.

To loosen-up the stodgy populace, a beach volleyball exhibition was held by the Olympics planners at the proposed venue site, Horse Guards Palace, on Thursday.

On the immense parade grounds of this palatial facility, which was originally used by soldiers in the 1700s to protect the monarchy, two women beach volleyball players showed-off the sport.

The bikini-clad Lucy Boulton and Denise Johns, members of the Great Britain beach volleyball team, served and spiked in front of gawkers ready to snap pictures, and the Queen's Guard who is always keen on observing any unusual action.

These official grounds, which can be eyed from the Prime Minister's office, must be formally approved by the Westminster City Council for use at the London Olympics. The selection of this location, in the heart of the United Kingdom's political center, initially raised eyebrows.  After all, this municipal venue is far removed from the park and beach settings of past Olympic Games.

The sexy Beach Volleyball competition is expected to shine as a marquee showcase, and attract sell-out crowds. The plans include the temporary erection of courts requiring thousands of tons of sand, and stadium seating approximating 15,000 spectators.

The event is comprised of 48 teams - equally split between the men and women. As the host, Great Britain is automatically granted one men's and women's team, regardless of their performance in the Olympics qualification process. The women's pair is considered a favorite to earn an Olympics bid; while the experienced Steven Grotowski, who is excelling this season on the United States tour among the best players in the world, is considered as a top candidate.