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Olympic Flame welcomed by thousands

THE OLYMPIC flame was given a rousing reception when it arrived in the borough yesterday (Monday).

Rugby had never seen anything like it as thousands lined the roads waving flags and blowing horns as the Olympic Torch Relay passed through on day 45 of its journey around the UK.

The rain managed to stay away for the Rugby and Dunchurch leg's 13 torchbearers.

There was a real party atmosphere as young and old alike turned out to catch a glimpse of the flame, and share in a little piece of sporting history, which dates back some 2,700 to the ancient games in Greece, where a flame burned continually on the altar of the goddess, Hera.

Things have changed somewhat. The modern day flame is a accompanied on its travels by garish sponsors vehicles, selling everything from fizzy drinks to bank accounts, and more policeman than have been seen on the borough's streets for many a moon.

But for all the razzmatazz, the flame itself and the stories of the inspirational people chosen to carry it, maintained a detached dignity, and as they passed the torchbearers were politely applauded - in the best British tradition.

By the time the torch arrives at the Olympic stadium for the start of the Games, on July 27, some 8,000 runners will have covered 8,000 miles up and down the country during the 70 days of the relay.

More pictures to follow.

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