It was a suitably red hot day for the thousands of people, two and three deep in parts, who lined the Olympic Torch route in Romford, today (Sunday).

Revellers started gathering in the hours leading up to the Torch’s arrival, bringing flags, picnics, and a carnival atmosphere, with them.

They cheered and waved as the Flame was carried from the High Street by Aimee Sell, 17, a karate champion from Hornchurch, into the Market, where it was given to Caitlin Hewson, 12, from Aveley.

The keen sportswoman from Gaynes School, in Brackendale Gardens, Upminster, completed a circuit of the historic square, before handing the Torch to Mo Morris, 57, from Leytonstone, who carried the Flame into South Street.

From there, it was taken to Hornchurch and onto Rainham.

Adrian Sinclaire, 35, took daughter Tahlia , four, to see it.

He said: “It’s a historic event and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Hopefully Tahlia will remember it for the rest of her life.

“The Olympics are great for the country and hopefully it will get people spending again and give the economy a kick-start.”