Olympic fever hits Bracknell Forest

11 July 2012

Olympic fever hit Bracknell Forest this week when thousands of people lined the streets to welcome the Olympic Torch as it travelled through the borough.

More than 30,000 residents helped make Tuesday, July 10, Bracknell’s moment to shine as the Olympic Torch – on day 53 of its journey from Land’s End to the Olympic Park  - travelled through Bracknell.

Eager to catch a glimpse and witness a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, people lined the streets to watch the nine Torchbearers – some who live in the borough - carry the flame through Bracknell as it travelled along London Road, Millenium Way and Skimped Hill Lane.

At some points along the route, the crowd was eight or nine people deep.

Chris Vaal, leisure development manager, said: “I want to thank everyone for coming along and supporting the Torch and for being such a fun crowd – we hope everyone enjoyed their afternoon, and managed to catch a glimpse of the Torch and soak up the party atmosphere.

“A big thanks must also go out to the team of volunteers who marshalled the route and worked really hard to ensure the day was a great success.

Cllr Iain McCracken, executive member for culture, corporate services and public protection, added: “We wanted the Torch Relay to be Bracknell’s moment to shine, and it really was.

“People of all ages came out to support the Torch and Torchbearers, and helped make the afternoon an afternoon to remember.

 “It really was a once-in-a-lifetime event, and I’m glad so many people were able to be part of it.”

 Pictures from the Torch relay can be found at www.facebook.com/bracknellforestcouncil