Olympic Torch Passes Chiswick On Thames

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Hundreds line the river-bank to wave and cheer it on its final journey

Chiswick got a second chance this week to see the Olympic Torch as the flame was carried along the Thames aboard the Gloriana.

A sudden shower did not dampen the spirits of the hundreds who had lined the riverbank from Kew Bridge, along Strand-on-the-Green, Chiswick Bridge, Dukes Meadows and down to Hammersmith, waving flags and cheering.

It came into view passing Kew Bridge shortly after 10am, arriving at Dukes Meadows around 10.15am.

Picture; Paul Chambers

The Gloriana had started its journey at Hampton Court Palace early in the morning, with its final scheduled stop at the Tower of London.

Those on board the Gloriana waved at the crowds as police helicopters hovered overhead and police boats and Harbour Master vessels escorted the Flame along its final journey before the lighting at the opening ceremony at the Olympic Park.

Gloriana passing under Kew Bridge into Chiswick (Picture; Ian Wylie)

The £1 million barge, Gloriana, was built for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Pageant. It was one of the star attractions of the Jubilee flotilla where it was rowed by a crew of British Olympic oarsmen and women who competed from 1948 to 2008.

Crowds line the river bank at Strand-on-the Green ( pic: Ian Wylie)

The torch will sail downstream past the Houses of Parliament before ending its voyage near Tower Bridge. The final lap will be the end of an 8,000 mile journey featuring 8,000 runners over 70 days.

July 27, 2012