Light start to Paralympic Torch Relay
August 27, 2012 by Grace Franklin · Leave a Comment
Lord Provost Sadie Docherty welcomes the Paralympic Flame which was brought to Glasgow by Flame Ambassadors Maggie McEleny (left) and Jodie Taylor (right)
Families enjoyed an exciting Flame Celebration at Glasgow’s Tramway on Sunday as part of the nationwide Torch relay to mark the Paralympic Games which start in London on Wednesday 29 August 2012 till Sunday 9 September.
Glasgow’s two Ambassadors, Jodie Taylor and Maggie McEleny, collected the flame from the lighting ceremony in Edinburgh and brought it, safely, to Glasgow where it was officially welcomed by the Lord Provost, Sadie Docherty.
Visual artists helped waiting families at the Tramway and its Hidden Gardens, create torches and flower garlands to line the route of the torch procession. They also made a collage inspired by The Flame and The Games. Sporting events included boccia, basketball and other sports.
Glasgow’s Lord Provost said: ‘We have provided an amazing welcome for the flame. Sport and activity is for all. Now we will be cheering on our Team GB athletes.’
Locog chair Lord Coe said: ‘Created at the summit of Ben Nevis, the Scottish Flame represents an achievement of human endeavour, which is something that every Paralympian represents.’
Four scouts and climber Kevin Shields lit the flame on Ben Nevis. It was then placed in a lantern, brought down the mountain and taken to Edinburgh. It will continue around the UK – including visiting the home of the Paralympic movement at Stoke Mandeville – before being carried in a 24-hour relay into the opening ceremony.
Scottish Secretary Michael Moore said: ‘The talents, dedication and hard work of Scotland’s torch bearers and Paralympians GB is, quite simply, inspirational. I’d especially like to send my best wishes to the 26 Scottish Paralympians. I know the whole country will be cheering them on throughout the Games.’
Scottish sport minister Shona Robison added her welcome: ‘I have no doubt the Paralympics will encourage disabled people’s participation in sport and significantly transform disabled people’s lives, leading to a more inclusive society for everyone.’
Performances at the Tramway included the Limelight Band and Maggie Riley. Visitors also heard Joseph Delaney, the first disabled musician to graduate from a University music course in Scotland.
Indepen-dance brought all weathers to the Hidden Gardens with their beautiful performance of Forecast and Solar Bear’s Deaf Youth Theatre signing choir performed a brilliant rendition of Sunscreen.
