Highlands welcomes the Olympic Torch Relay - Crowds turn out in their thousands

Issued by Highlands and Islands Strategic Co-ordinating Group

The Highlands and Islands Strategic Co-ordinating Group are delighted with the public response to the arrival of the Olympic Torch Relay in the Highlands.
 
Nearly 50,000 people turned out to welcome the Torch as it made its way from Glencoe to Inverness, via Ballachulish, Fort William, Spean Bridge, Fort Augustus, Invermoriston and Drumnadrochit.
 
Chief Inspector Colin Gough said, "The crowds that turned out to welcome the Olympic Flame far exceeded our expectations. The Relay passed without incident and our thanks go to the well natured crowds for turning out in such huge numbers. We are pleased with the multi agency planning and reponse that contributed to the success of this unprecedented event."
 
Neil Gillies, Director of Transport Enviornmental and Community Services said, "What a fantastic day for the Highlands. I am delighted to see so many people give such a warm Highland welcome to the Olympic Flame."
 
Glencoe  500
Ballachulish  300
Fort William  6,000
Spean Bridge  300
Fort Augustus  1,000
Invermoriston  100
Drumnadrochit  200
Inverness 20,000
Northern Meeting Park Concert 19,000
 
Ends