Frome ready to welcome Olympic Torch

THE countdown has begun to welcome the Olympic Torch as it passes through the heart of Frome on its mammoth 70-day tour of the UK. The Olympic Torch will pass through Frome on Tuesday 22nd of May at 11.55am, where it will join The Butts from Marston Road.
The torch will then be carried along Butts Hill and on to Bath Street, Market Place, North Parade and Fromefield before heading off towards Southwick. Mayor of Frome cllr Nick White said, “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime event to have the Olympic Torch come through Frome. I know it’s on a work day but it would be great if people could turn up and show their support. “I am a little disappointed that the organising body (London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games; LOCOG) did not allocate a Frome person to carry the torch through the town. “But I’m sure we can all create a real buzz for this once-in-a-lifetime event.” Sebastian Coe, chair of LOCOG said, “The Flame symbolises the Olympic spirit and its journey around the UK will bring the excitement of the Games to our streets. Now the people know the route the Olympic Flame will be carried along and the Torchbearers for their community, they can celebrate and make it Mendip’s moment to shine.” Each torchbearer will wear a white and gold uniform which has been designed by Adidas. A rolling road closure will be in place in the streets that the Olympic Torch is passing through. This is a temporary slowing of traffic behind the Olympic Torch bearers. Thousands of people were nominated to take part in the Olympic Torch relay as it travels 8,000 miles across the UK over 70 days. Frome woman, Philippa Vernon-Powell will carry the torch through the Glastonbury area on the same day. An average of 115 torchbearers a day will carry the Olympic Flame during its 8,000 mile journey around the UK before it arrives at the Olympic Stadium on 27th July for the lighting of the cauldron at the Opening Ceremony, signifying the official start of the London 2012 Olympic Games. Will you be taking photographs or videoing the Olympic Torch visit? If so, why not send Frome Times your photos or videos for use on our website? Email frometimes@btconnect.com or call 01373 452109.