1948 Olympic torch bearer with Reading Scottish Pipe Band |
The Reading Scottish Pipe Band played beautifully, entertaining the swelling crowds in anticipation of the first torch bearer. Young and old shared the excitement and there was a wonderful air of anticipation.
The Mayor of Reading with my daughter |
The Right Worshipful Mayor of Reading, Jenny Rynn, greeted and chatted with people including Mr Tutton who was a torch bearer at the 1948 London Olympics.
The crowds were taken a little by surprise when the torch relay started early, which also meant the bell ringers in St Peter's Church from above the gardens were unable to synchronise. However this aside everybody was relieved the sun shone down and made it a memorable occasion.
Hundreds more lined the streets along to Caversham Bridge, enjoying the spectacle before dispersing and getting back to the routine of normal life. I'm sure everybody who watched will remember today as there is a magic about witnessing the build-up to London 2012.
Many seated on the sides left early as they found the situation intolerable. It would seem that this was because the event organisers didn't use the Stadium's own sound system.
The first torch bearer sets off from Caversham Court |