Olympic 2012 torch relay to visit Hull and Cleethorpes
- Published
The Olympic torch is set to arrive in Hull and North East Lincolnshire in June 2012 as part of a 70-day tour of the UK.
The torch will arrive in Hull on Monday, 18 June and in Cleethorpes on Tuesday, 26 June, en route to London.
Organisers of the Games said the torch would travel 8,000 miles around the UK before reaching the stadium.
The torch's six-day tour of the Yorkshire and Humber region has been welcomed.
Councillor Terry Geraghty, who is responsible for sport in Hull said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for people of Hull to get into the Olympic spirit and be part of the London 2012 Olympic torch relay.
"It gives local people the chance to do an extraordinary thing and will be something torchbearers, and those who watch he relay and part in the celebration, will remember for rest of their lives.
"We will also get to show off some fantastic parts of our city."
A statement from North East Lincolnshire Council said: "This is a wonderful opportunity for the area and everyone living here.
'On our doorstep'
"As well as building excitement and enthusiasm for the Games it is an opportunity for us to shine a spotlight on our inspirational sports people and our array of local sporting activities and opportunities.
"It will give us the chance to bring the Olympics right to our doorstep.
"There will be a chance for the community to join in with the celebrations as the torch relay travels through the borough and the evening celebration will bring the community together."
Gary Verity, chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire and chairman of Yorkshire Gold - the organisation responsible for promoting the Olympic games in Yorkshire - said it was terrific news.
Mr Verity said: "Hosting the torch over six days in Yorkshire and Humber is terrific news.
"I urge everyone to play their part in making sure we make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime occasion."
Lord Coe, chairman of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, said: "The Olympic flame will shine a light right across every nation and region of the UK and showcase the very best of who we are and where we live."