THERE was an air of anticipation, as hundreds lined the streets of Chiseldon to catch a glimpse of the torch as it began its route around Swindon.

People of all ages started to get in their positions on the side of the road from 10am as they all aimed to get the best view of the flame as it came through the village.

Florence Welsh, 80, from Covingham, was one of the first to take her seat ready for the relay and was dressed for the occasion in a red, white and blue outfit and carrying a number of Union Jacks.

She said: “We have got to come out and celebrate, it is a once in a life-time event.

“The atmosphere is absolutely fantastic.

“I have seen it on the television but to have it coming through Chiseldon was really nice, I was very excited.”

People filled the garden of The Patriots Arms where there was a BBQ put on and Morris Dancers to welcome the torch.

Sat in the garden donned from head to toe in Union Jack’s was Jeff Hannath, 65, of Chiseldon said: “It is a great day and a huge honour to have the torch running through Chiseldon.

“There are places close like Marlborough and Royal Wootton Bassett which would have been good, but to have it actually coming through Chiseldon is absolutely brilliant.”

Schools in the village also got into the spirit of the day allowing the children to line the sides of the roads waving flags and cheering every time a vehicle or person walked past.

John Dickens, head teacher at Chiseldon Primary School, said: “It is a once in a life-time opportunity and for the children to be able to come and see it is fantastic.

“The weather is just wonderful and for the torch to be coming through Chiseldon is something special.”

The torch arrived in the village at 12.08pm where it was carried by Becci Berry, 39, from Coleshill before being handed over to Carney Bonner, former member of the Youth Parliament.

The 18-year-old from of Willington Road, Priory Vale, said: “This is such a memorable day and the crowds are fantastic, look how many people have turned out.

“It is a huge honour to be able to carry the torch and be recognised for the work that I have done.”

Anna Mumford, from Alexandra Park, was there with her family and daughter Elouise-May, four.

She said: “It is not often you get the chance to see something like this and it is nice to bring the children down and get some memorable photos.”

The torch left Chiseldon at 12.15pm and headed for Wroughton.