One flame, four towns, 34 torchbearers and around 70,000 spectators, with thousands of others involved in the event, all added up to a spectacular day for the Olympic Torch Relay Cheshire East.
The torch made its way into the Borough on day 13 of the relay and apart from the rain there was no bad luck to be seen.
Spectators determined to enjoy themselves and take part in this once-in-a-lifetime event turned out in their thousands to welcome the flame – with many in position more than an hour before it was due to arrive.
The first stop in Cheshire East was Crewe, where crowds were 10 – 15 rows deep in some places.
From there the flame snaked its way through Cheshire East stopping in Congleton, Macclesfield and Knutsford to cheering crowds and a party atmosphere.
Along the route the Council’s arts, heritage and cultural services team had worked closely with local schools, community groups and performers to line the route with live entertainment and displays of public art for the crowd to enjoy.
After Knutsford the flame made its way to Tatton Park where it was given a rapturous reception by more than 3,000 young people.
The torch was welcomed by singing dancing and samba music as it made its way around the historical mansion house.
Alongside Cheshire Police, the route was managed by around 250 Council-trained volunteers who helped to ensure the event ran smoothly and people remained safe.
There was further good news with roads reopening soon after the torch had passed, enabling traffic to return to normal as quickly as possible. The Council has received good feedback from residents about yesterday’s event.
Councillor Michael Jones, Leader of Cheshire East Council, said:
“The arrival of the Olympic Flame has shone a light on Cheshire East and its residents and showcased everything that is good about the place where we live.
“It was a great turnout and the weather didn’t dampen the spirits of those who had come out see the flame and get involved in the celebrations.
“I am sure that the day will live long in the memory of the people who came to see the flame and the Cheshire East residents who took part as torch bearers. I would also like to thank the Council staff who have been working hard for months to ensure that the event was delivered successfully and safely.
“We are committed to developing civic pride and I am delighted that so many towns and communities came together to celebrate the Torch relay coming to Cheshire East.”
The Olympic Torch travelled through Crewe yesterday (Thursday 31st May) on day 13 of its 70 day tour around the United Kingdom.
There was a real carnival atmosphere along the route with thousands of people waving their Union and Olympic Flags and capturing the moment on their phones.
In total 8,000 runners will take part in the tour which covers 8,000 miles. Organisers say 95% of the country's population are within one hour of the route, which ends on 27th July with the lighting of the cauldron at the opening ceremony in the Olympic Stadium, Stratford.
The remainder of the route can be viewed live via http://www.bbc.co.uk/torchrelay
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