The Olympic torch in Barnet and Enfield - blog part two

Wednesday, 25 July 2012

By Mary McConnell

2.45pm

THOUSANDS of people turned out to cheer 100-year-old Diana Gould as she carried the Olympic flame through Hendon and into Middlesex University today.

Despite the punishing sunshine and 30+ temperatures, people waited for hours to catch a glimpse of the flame as Diana walked carefully along The Burroughs, until she was greeted at Middlesex University by the Mayor of London Boris Johnson.

Grinning and waving at the crowds, the centenarian was nominated to carry the torch by her granddaughter Alexandra. She has been a lifelong advocate of sport and leads an exercise class for fellow pensioners, despite being the oldest by at least 15 years.

With a band playing live music, floats, fancy dress and children waving flags, everyone seemed to be enjoying the carnival atmosphere as the torch continued on its journey to the Olympic stadium.

Sandra Poulton, the vice-principle of London Brookes College, in The Burroughs, told me it was lovely to see the torch coming through Hendon. “It is bringing everyone together, it’s wonderful.

“This is a multi-ethnic area and everyone has come out to enjoy this. It’s a chance to put Hendon on the map.”

Kishor Mehta, 72, had brought his five-year-old grandson Viraj out to enjoy the festivities. “There are loads of children here, it’s a lovely atmosphere,” said Kishor. “There are lots of different people who have come out, it is wonderful.”

Viraj, who is going to seeing football and wrestling events during the games added: “It is fun to see the torch.”

After being brought to Hendon the torch took an hour break for lunch before Harry Potter actor Rupert Grint was due to complete the next leg. The torch is due to arrive in Southgate in just under an hour.

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