Olympic Torch arrives in Shropshire today

Today is the day when the Olympic Torch will arrive in Shropshire. 

The Torch will be carried by inspirational Torchbearers through Ludlow, Clee Hill and Cleobury Mortimer today (Thursday 24 May 2012) as it makes its way from Greece to the London 2012 Olympic Games.  It will visit the county again on Wednesday 30 May 2012. 

Shropshire Council is expecting lots of local people, visitors and around 15,000 schoolpupils to line the streets and welcome the Olympic Torch as it passes through. 

The council has been working with the schools and those who are watching the Torch have been allocated spaces along the route.  Anyone else wishing to watch the Torch is welcome to find a space with the best view. 

Although our highways team and the police will closely manage traffic and crowds, the Relay is expected to cause some disruption to people’s journeys and normal business activity may be affected for a short while. 

Also, people wishing to view the Torch should plan their journey and ensure that they park up and get their viewing space in plenty of time. 

Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member responsible for active and healthy lifestyles, said:

“We’re expecting lots of people to line the route and give the Olympic Torch a big Shropshire welcome. 

“Just remember to arrive in plenty of time if you want to see the Torch!” 

So far there have been some instances where the Olympic Torch has been running up to an hour late.  This maybe due to a number of reasons, including the different traveling speeds of the Torchbearers.  This will mean that people may have to wait a little longer to see the Torch. 

Also, as the weather is expected to be warm, people should make sure that they drink plenty of water, wear a hat and apply sunscreen. 

For further information about the route and road closures etc, people should visit shropshire.gov.uk/london2012 , follow the Relay on Twitter here or find us on Facebook here.