Lochaber steps up to the mark to welcome Olympic Torch
Lochaber communities are stepping up to the mark to welcome the Olympic Torch as it comes through Lochaber on Saturday 9 June at the start of a three-day visit to the Highlands.
Recognising this as a once in a lifetime occasion, school pupils are taking the chance to welcome the Torch to their communities by arranging activities and events to coincide with its arrival. And all residents and visitors can be guaranteed an excellent view at the following locations:
12.30pm - Glencoe Hotel, south to the Glencoe Village sign will offer one of the best viewing areas as the Torch bearer runs through to Tigh Phuirst. The Glencoe Hotel is hosting an Olympic party ahead of the torch coming through for children attending Glencoe, Ballachulish, Duror and Kinlochleven primary schools. This is a closed event for primary aged children and their immediate families therefore there will be no public access to the hotel, its grounds and car parking area for the duration of the event. The area for viewing the event immediately in front of the hotel will be restricted to those attending the community event, therefore the pavement immediately to the South of the Hotel will offer the best opportunities.
12.50pm - Ballachulish Bridge to Onich Petrol Station. The north-bound pavement between Ballachulish bridge and the Kinlochleven turn-off will provide the best viewing areas
1.30pm - Fort William – starting from Ashburn Lane near the Yacht Club, running through the High Street, across the Parade and to the Nevis Centre for a short break.
2.45pm – Nevis Centre to Lochaber Leisure Centre, where a community event will be taking place for young people
3.15pm – Spean Bridge – where the Torch will be run through the Village staying on the A82
The thousands of spectators enjoying the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup at Nevis Range won’t miss out as the Torch will also be making an appearance there around 2pm when it will take the UK's only Mountain Gondola at Nevis Range Mountain Experience to 650m on the slopes of Aonach Mor.
Dot Ferguson, The Highland Council’s Lochaber Wards Manager, said: “This promises to be a very special day for Lochaber and we are anticipating a really big turn out along the Torch Route. Timings for the relay are approximate, but while you’re waiting there will be plenty going on with the Olympic partners Coca-Cola, Samsung and the Bank of Scotland having advance entertainment with samples and activities for everyone.
“These activities will take place up to 45 minutes ahead of the main Torch convoy and spectators should be aware than any activities from these vehicles will be taking place on the north bound side of the road and it will make sense to spectate from that side.”
The visit of the Olympic Torch coincides with one of the town's busiest weekends as Fort William welcomes the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup, as well as Rock Ness taking place at Dores on the south side of Loch Ness and the Curtis Cup at Nairn. Although preparations are well underway to minimise any delays, it is highly likely that the Olympic Torch convoy will cause considerable delays on the A82 and travellers are being asked for their patience and understanding to ensure everyone enjoys the day with no mishap.
It is advisable for those travelling to either the UCI Mountain Bike Event or Rock Ness from the Central Belt to either leave early for the journey or consider an alternative route such as the A9.
Further information on the Torch route will be published as events are confirmed.