The 2012 Olympic Torch Relay was run from 19 May until 27 July, prior to the London 2012 Olympics.
The UK Torch Relay lasted 70 days, with 66 evening celebrations. About 8,000 people carried the torch a total distance of around 8,000 miles (12,800 km), starting from Land’s End in Cornwall.
The route was designed to ensure that the Olympic flame came within 10 miles of 95% of the UK population.
My role was manager for one of the main sponsors of the relay – Lloyds TSB. Lloyds TSB had a total of 2 x buses, 4 x London taxis, 20 performers and 5 crew. We travelled the entire length of the United Kingdom providing encouragement to the crowds, giving away swag and participating in the evening celebrations.
The role involved ensuring the performers were kept motivated, drivers were recognized, vehicles and costumes maintained, torch bearers celebrated, and crowds entertained. Given the high-profile nature of the relay, emphasis was placed on health and safety with training provided on evacuation procedures, crowd control and media relations.
Two teams leapfrogged with one advancing ahead of the flame to set up for each evening celebration and one following the flame. It was a huge feat and one of my most memorable experiences to date!
