Above Foxton Locks, Bridge 60

Yes, we are still here, and despite the rain, we waited with hope of seeing the Olympic torch as it visited the locks here today.

We didn't have to wait too long before the expected arrival, just after 4pm, and we had a really clear view across to the appointed lock, where the BW historic narrow boat "Swift" was already in place in the lower lock of the top staircase. The rain was unceasing. The spectators were outnumbered by 2:1 by Police, BW, Olympic personnel etc etc etc We have never seen so many yellow and orange reflective jackets strolling round an event. Crowd control was hardly an issue. Samsung kindly? handed out plastic batons to make a noise with, and when the torch bearer appeared, flags and cheering and squeaky batons welcomed him as he ran and waved, and stepped onto Swift.Once on deck, the torch bearers then kissed torches and the flame was transferred, the paddle was lifted, and the boat slowly lowered into the lock, and all we could see was the flame above the lock edge!. Fortunately the new bearer realised he needed to bend below an approaching bridge, as the boat moved forward into the next lock. The rain did not have the last word, and the flame flickered on undaunted, and the torchbearer then stepped off the boat and the flame was whisked away into Foxton village, where the road had been ready since 7am!.

The spectacle was over so quickly, but everyone moved off with a satisfied sort of grin on their face!

Unrepeatable!