70 days 8,000 runners 8,000 miles Torch relay FAQs
Routes
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- Day 1 Land's End to Plymouth May 19
- Day 2 Plymouth to Exeter May 20
- Day 3 Exeter to Taunton May 21
- Day 4 Taunton to Bristol May 22
- Day 5 Bristol to Cheltenham May 23
- Day 6 Gloucester to Worcester May 24
- Day 7 Worcester to Cardiff May 25
- Day 8 Cardiff to Swansea May 26
- Day 9 Swansea to Aberystwyth May 27
- Day 10 Aberystwyth to Bangor May 28
- Day 11 Beaumaris to Chester May 29
- Day 12 Chester to Stoke-on-Trent May 30
- Day 13 Stoke-on-Trent to Bolton May 31
- Day 14 Bolton to Liverpool June 1
- Day 15 Liverpool to Castletown June 2
- Day 16 Belfast to Portrush June 3
- Day 17 Carrick-a-Rede to Londonderry June 4
- Day 18 Londonderry to Newry June 5
- Day 19 Dublin to Belfast June 6
- Day 20 Newcastle to Moorfields June 7
- Day 21 Stranraer to Glasgow June 8
- Day 22 Glasgow to Inverness June 9
- Day 23 Kirkwall to Lerwick June 10
- Day 24 Stornoway to Aberdeen June 11
- Day 25 Aberdeen to Dundee June 12
- Day 26 St Andrews to Edinburgh June 13
- Day 27 Edinburgh to Alnwick June 14
- Day 28 Alnwick to Newcastle upon Tyne June 15
- Day 29 Gateshead to Durham June 16
- Day 30 Durham to Middlesbrough June 17
- Day 31 Middlesbrough to Hull June 18
- Day 32 Hull to York June 19
- Day 33 York to Carlisle June 20
- Day 34 Dumfries to Bowness-on-Windermere June 21
- Day 35 Kendal to Blackpool June 22
- Day 36 Lytham St Anne's to Manchester June 23
- Day 37 Salford to Leeds June 24
- Day 38 Leeds to Sheffield June 25
- Day 39 Sheffield to Cleethorpes June 26
- Day 40 Grimsby to Lincoln June 27
- Day 41 Lincoln to Nottingham June 28
- Day 42 Nottingham to Derby June 29
- Day 43 Derby to Birmingham June 30
- Day 44 Birmingham to Coventry July 1
- Day 45 Coventry to Leicester July 2
- Day 46 Leicester to Peterborough July 3
- Day 47 Peterborough to Norwich July 4
- Day 48 Norwich to Ipswich July 5
- Day 49 Ipswich to Chelmsford July 6
- Day 50 Chelmsford to Cambridge July 7
- Day 51 Cambridge to Luton July 8
- Day 52 Luton to Oxford July 9
- Day 53 Oxford to Reading July 10
- Day 54 Reading to Salisbury July 11
- Day 55 Salisbury to Weymouth July 12
- Day 56 Portland Bill to Bournemouth July 13
- Day 57 Bournemouth to Southampton July 14
- Day 58 Southampton to Portsmouth July 15
- Day 59 Portsmouth to Brighton July 16
- Day 60 Brighton to Hastings July 17
- Day 61 Hastings to Dover July 18
- Day 62 Deal to Maidstone July 19
- Day 63 Maidstone to Guildford July 20
- Day 64 Greenwich to Waltham Forest July 21
- Day 65 Redbridge to Bexley July 22
- Day 66 Lewisham to Wandsworth July 23
- Day 67 Kingston to Ealing July 24
- Day 68 Harrow to Haringey July 25
- Day 69 Camden to Westminster July 26
- Day 70 Hampton Court to Olympic Stadium July 27
70 days; 70 routes
- Day 1 Land's End to Plymouth
- Day 2 Plymouth to Exeter
- Day 3 Exeter to Taunton
- Day 4 Taunton to Bristol
- Day 5 Bristol to Cheltenham
- Day 6 Gloucester to Worcester
- Day 7 Worcester to Cardiff
- Day 8 Cardiff to Swansea
- Day 9 Swansea to Aberystwyth
- Day 10 Aberystwyth to Bangor
- Day 11 Beaumaris to Chester
- Day 12 Chester to Stoke-on-Trent
- Day 13 Stoke-on-Trent to Bolton
- Day 14 Bolton to Liverpool
- Day 15 Liverpool to Castletown
- Day 16 Belfast to Portrush
- Day 17 Carrick-a-Rede to Londonderry
- Day 18 Londonderry to Newry
- Day 19 Dublin to Belfast
- Day 20 Newcastle to Moorfields
- Day 21 Stranraer to Glasgow
- Day 22 Glasgow to Inverness
- Day 23 Kirkwall to Lerwick
- Day 24 Stornoway to Aberdeen
- Day 25 Aberdeen to Dundee
- Day 26 St Andrews to Edinburgh
- Day 27 Edinburgh to Alnwick
- Day 28 Alnwick to Newcastle upon Tyne
- Day 29 Gateshead to Durham
- Day 30 Durham to Middlesbrough
- Day 31 Middlesbrough to Hull
- Day 32 Hull to York
- Day 33 York to Carlisle
- Day 34 Dumfries to Bowness-on-Windermere
- Day 35 Kendal to Blackpool
- Day 36 Lytham St Anne's to Manchester
- Day 37 Salford to Leeds
- Day 38 Leeds to Sheffield
- Day 39 Sheffield to Cleethorpes
- Day 40 Grimsby to Lincoln
- Day 41 Lincoln to Nottingham
- Day 42 Nottingham to Derby
- Day 43 Derby to Birmingham
- Day 44 Birmingham to Coventry
- Day 45 Coventry to Leicester
- Day 46 Leicester to Peterborough
- Day 47 Peterborough to Norwich
- Day 48 Norwich to Ipswich
- Day 49 Ipswich to Chelmsford
- Day 50 Chelmsford to Cambridge
- Day 51 Cambridge to Luton
- Day 52 Luton to Oxford
- Day 53 Oxford to Reading
- Day 54 Reading to Salisbury
- Day 55 Salisbury to Weymouth
- Day 56 Portland Bill to Bournemouth
- Day 57 Bournemouth to Southampton
- Day 58 Southampton to Portsmouth
- Day 59 Portsmouth to Brighton
- Day 60 Brighton to Hastings
- Day 61 Hastings to Dover
- Day 62 Deal to Maidstone
- Day 63 Maidstone to Guildford
- Day 64 Greenwich to Waltham Forest
- Day 65 Redbridge to Bexley
- Day 66 Lewisham to Wandsworth
- Day 67 Kingston to Ealing
- Day 68 Harrow to Haringey
- Day 69 Camden to Westminster
- Day 70 Hampton Court to Olympic Stadium
Explore our map to find out where the torch is going each day or check the text version to see a list of locations.
- Map colour key
- Past day
- Today
- Future day
- Find out more
Estimated arrival times
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Alnwick
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Hipsburn
-
Warkworth
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Amble
-
Ashington
-
Newbiggin-By-The-Sea
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Ashington
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Choppington
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Morpeth
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Hartford
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Bedlington
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Blyth
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Whitley Bay
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Cullercoats
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Tynemouth
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North Shields
-
Howdon
-
Wallsend
-
Newcastle upon Tyne
- Map colour key
- Start stop
- Finish stop
- Past stop
- Torch location
- Future stop
- Approximate route
- Find out more
Estimated arrival times
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Alnwick
- Bondgate Without
- Aydon Gardens (B6346)
- Alnmouth Road A1068
- A1068
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Hipsburn
- Lesbury Road (A1068)
- A1068
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Warkworth
- A1068
- Bridge Street
- Castle Street
- Warkworth Castle Car-Park
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Amble
- The Wynd (A1068)
- Albert Street
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Ashington
- A1068
- Morpeth Road (A197)
- Booths Road
- Station Road
- Lintonville Road
- A197
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Newbiggin By-The-Sea
- Woodhorn Road (A197)
- Woodhorn Lane (A197)
- B1334
- Gibson Street
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Ashington (a)
- B1334
- Newbiggin Road (B1334)
- Blackclose Bank (B1334)
- Westford Road (B1334)
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Choppington
- Westford Road (B1334)
- Stakeford Lane (A196)
- Front Street (A196)
- Sheepwash Bank
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Morpeth
- Whorral Bank (A197)
- Howard Road
- Copper Chare
- Newgate Street
- Bridge Street
- Newgate Street
- A192
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Hartford
- Plessey Woods Country Park
- Shields Road (A192)
- Shielfd Road (A192)
- Hartford Drive
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Bedlington
- Hartford Road
- Front Street West (A193)
- Front Street (A193)
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Blyth
- Front Street (A193)
- Cowpen Road (A193)
- Renwick Road (A193)
- Princess Louise Road
- Blyth Sports Centre
- Princess Louise Road
- Broadway
- A193
- Rotary Way (A193)
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Whitley Bay
- The Links (A193)
- Promenade (A193)
- Radcliffe Gardens (A193)
- Windsor Crescent (A193)
- Victoria Crescent
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Cullercoats
- Front Street (A193)
- Victoria Crescent
- Marsden Avenue
- Mast Lane
- The Broadway (A193)
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Tynemouth
- The Broadway (A193)
- A193
- Manor Road (A193)
- Front Street
- Allendale Place (A193)
- Tynemouth Road (A193)
- Tynemouth Road (A193)Tynemouth Road (A193)
- Tynemouth Road (A193)
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North Shields
- Tynemouth Road (A193)
- Albion Street (A193)
- Spence Terrace (A193)
- Chirton Green (A193)
- Front Street (A193)
- Wallsend Road (A193)
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Howdon
- Tynemouth Road (A193)
- Rosehill (A193)
-
Wallsend
- Rosehill (A193)
- Church Bank (A193)
- High Street (A193)
- Station Road (A186)
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Newcastle upon Tyne
- Sandyford Road
- Portland Road
- Clarence Street
- New Bridge Street
- Durant Road
- John Dobson Street
- Northumberland Road
- Blackett Street
- Old Eldon Square
- Blackett Street
- Percy Street
- St. Marys Place
- Ceremonail Way
- Flagpole Avenue
- Barras Bridge
- Claremont Road
- Queen Victoria Road
- Richardson Road
- Sheraton Street
- Hunters Road
- Barrack Road
- St. James Park car-park
- St. James Park Vehicle Tunnel
- St. James Park Players Entrance
- St. James Park Pitch
- St. James Park Players Tunnel
- St. James Park vehicle Tunnel
- Strawberry Place
- Barrack Road
- Gallowgate
- St. Andrews Street
- Stowell Street
- Bath Lane
- St. James Boulevard
- Westmorland Road
- Marlborough Crescent
- Centre for Life forecourt
- Westmorland Road
- Clayton Street West
- Clayton Street
- Newgate Street
- Grainger Street
- Market Street
- Grey Street
- Mosley Street
- St Nicolas Street
- Side
- Sandhill
- Bridge Street
- Church Street
- Tyne Bridge
- HMS Calliope
- South Shore Road
- Baltic Square
- Gateshead Millenium Bridge
- The Quayside
- Barried path to stage
Evening Celebration
The Quayside, Newcastle
Torch Relay News
Watch/Listen
-
Watch Olympic torch relay highlights -
Watch 'Olympomania' at Hyde Park -
Watch Torch visits Downing Street -
Watch 'Eddie and Patsy' carry flame -
Watch Bollywood star carries flame -
Watch Olympic torch: Banks at Wembley -
Watch Torch visits EastEnders set -
Watch Tennis stars in Olympic torch relay -
Watch South London hosts torch relay -
Watch Skier takes flame on London Eye
0726: Good morning and welcome to day 28 of the torch relay, your writers for the morning session are Jenny Minard and Jane Mower. Stay with us for the highlights as the flame travels 64 miles from Alnwick to Newcastle, taking in Northumberland and the coastal resorts of North Tyneside.
0727: Later you can expect to see football legend Jack Charlton carry the Olympic flame in the centre of Newcastle. The torch will also fly by zip wire from the Tyne Bridge in the hands of adventurer Bear Grylls.
0727: It's a gloomy start in Alnwick where the first torchbearer of the day, Richard Moules, will carry the flame from Alnwick Cross Monument into Market Street where we should get our first glimpse of him.
Richard, 65, was a leading member of a group that saved Humshaugh village shop from closure.
0730: Remember to tweet us at @BBC2012 and visit our Facebook page at BBC London 2012.
0736: And there seems to have been a handover already as here is runner number two Philip Spencer.
Philip, 59, is Head of Development for Alnwick Garden - a charity based in Northumberland - which aims to improve the well-being of children by teaching them how to grow vegetables in its "Roots and Shoots garden".
0737: A few cheers as he hands over to Arthur Basstoe, 81, who sets off at a fast walking pace.
The person who nominated Arthur says: "During last winter he hiked daily to the nearest shop - three miles away - with his rucksack, through four feet of snow to help his elderly neighbour as well his own shopping." He was brought up in the East End of London and used to run in 800 metre races, belonging to his local Athletic Club Eton Manor - now the site of the Olympic Stadium.
0740: The waterproofs and brollies are out and a woman sounding a horn captures the moment on her phone.
0743: Despite his age Arthur has been given two legs of the relay but he is keeping up a fair pace without too much trouble. Waving as he goes.
0745: First road journey of the day and we're headed to Hipsburn.
0751: First out of the coach in Hipsburn is 6ft 2ins tall Stephen Gill. Here the crowds are a little thin but enthusiastic.
0757: Next we're travelling in convoy to Warkworth where we should get to see the village's impressive castle.
Don't forget you can get in touch with us on Facebook and Twitter.
Helen Richardson from BBC Newcastle tweets: "We're live in Alnwick this morning as the torch leaves - now it's heading to Warkworth and there are big crowds looking at BBCtorchcam!!"
0804: We've arrived and the security team have lit Michael Riding's torch.
Michael, 55, established the North Shields hockey club, initially for school boys at John Spence School. Many of the boys came from deprived backgrounds and were in trouble with the police. It now has three male teams and a girl's team.
0805: Running alongside the River Coquet he is cheered along by the sodden crowds.
While some spectators are braving the rain with umbrellas and waterproof coats, Emma Gardner tweets: "Ah I can't believe it. The Olympic torch is coming to the region today and it's absolutely chucking it down."
Brian MacElwee on Facebook says: "I hope the rain there ends soon."
0807: Big cheers as he passes through the main street and hands over to Tony Holland to blaring horns and a drum beat.
0810: Tony keeps up a strong pace as he passes the castle walls and runs into the castle entrance.
The convoy vehicles are kept outside while the flame goes into the castle grounds.
0815: Once again we're on the road and Amble is our next destination.
0817: Logan Jones starts us off in Amble with the security officer telling him to hold the torch aloft. Plenty of people capturing the moment on their phones and cameras.
While crowds line the streets with umbrellas, John Gosling tweets: "Don't care what the weather is like today going to see the Olympic torch. Once in my lifetime."
Jennifer Schmidt is enjoying the scenery. She tweets: "So cool how castles just seem to pop up out of nowhere all over the UK."
0821: And the second runner in Amble is Lisa French, 37, who was on the number 30 bus when it exploded in London's Tavistock Square in the 7 July bombings, 2005. The person who nominated her says: "She has been on an amazing personal journey since that time. To make sense of the suffering and pain she carries from that day Lisa has become and advocate for peace."
She took part in the Cambodia Challenge for Humanitarian Oragnisation MAG International, where she built a house and blew up a landmine!
0822: There's quite a turn out here and loud cheers for Lisa. The flame is popped back in the lantern for the journey to Ashington.
0829: We didn't get to the see the moment the first torchbearer carried the flame in Alnwick, because #bbctorchcam couldn't get to the area where it was lit - but here is a picture thanks to Flora Peden Smith.
She tweets: "That's more like it... Finally saw the flaming torch."
0832: While the flame is travelling to Ashington, why not have a look at where the torch is going for the rest of the day.
Olympian Jonathan Edwards is following the flame. He tweets: "Hideous morning in Newcastle - special good luck to everyone on the torch relay."
To find out what the weather is up to on today's route, hover over the green dots on the map on this page.
David Brown has a different take on the weather. He tweets: "I love rain. Actually glad it is raining, standing in the rain to watch a torch."
If you want to track the torch's progress today - or any day of the relay - have a look at our map on this page. The flashing red dot indicates where the torch is on its journey. The list of places below the map tells you when it is due to arrive in each place - and the red arrow pinpoints the next location.
Campievanner tweets: "Good Luck to my Dads district nurse David carrying it in Morpeth. Enjoy the day I will be watching on torchcam. Don't tell the boss."
0844: Looks like a wet ride for the security team getting their bikes off the van now we're in Ashington.
Chris Conway tweets this picture of crowds waiting.
0846: Taking the flame just a few minutes behind schedule is Scott Quin, 21, a young swimmer who has been a member of the Warrender Baths Swimming Club for the past three years.
He has been part of the National Swimming Squad for the past four years representing Scotland at the DSE Senior Swimming Championships on a number of occasions.
0849: BBC Look North's Mark Tulip said: "The crowds have been pretty good considering the weather - there is still a good atmosphere!"
0849: Sensibly wearing a poncho is runner Roly Sanderson, 60, who has combined his love of running marathons and half-marathons, with raising over £130,000 for local charities.
0852: Lots of people on Twitter are asking how the torch stays lit in the rain - you can find out how it was weather-tested by London 2012 organisers.
0852: A hand shake and a kiss from John Celino as he takes over the baton. He strays to the left and is quickly told to keep in the middle of the road.
0859: Another poncho-wearer, David Tinlin, has his torch lit and has a big man-hug with the previous torchbearer then heads off through Ashington's pedestrian area where the crowds have really turned out.
0906: The torch relay convoy leaves Ashington for Newbiggin-By-The-Sea. On board is BBC Look North's Mark Tulip who says there were "big crowds in the town centre despite the rain".
0912: Rebecca Matthewson looks cold and wet as she stands on the roadside waiting for the flame to arrive. The 23-year-old is a member of the Army Cadet Force and runs a small rural detachment in Broomhill.
The security team has to use the windshield to light the torch as it's pretty windy out there.
A woman almost loses her brolly as the wind turns it inside out.
0921: Running with the torch now is Chris Hedley, 22, who helped look after his brother Joseph who was not breathing when he was born and died 16 months later. His parents said Christopher picked the music for Joseph's funeral and played a guitar solo. "Christopher kept us going even though he was grieving himself - he is our hero," they said.
0927: The flags are out in the seaside town which has two main beaches; Newbiggin Bay and Little Bay.
0929: Is that a pink spotty dog among the crowds or did I get up too early? Do you know who it belongs to? Get in touch if you do.
0930: Last to run there is Gordon Hawkins, 72, who joined the 7th Newcastle Life Boys at seven years old in 1946. At 12 he joined the senior section of the 7th Boys Brigade. In 1957 he became the first boy in Newcastle to be awarded the Queens Badge for over 20 years. To this day he is still encouraging children and trying to teach them craft, sport and how to be good citizens.
0933: We're back in Ashington, due to the nature of today's route we visit the town twice, and with torchbearer Wies Van Den Broeck.
0936: A very sprightly leg and we're on to William Ogilvie, who at 83 sets off at a more sedate pace. He volunteers in an extraordinary range of local community activities every day of his life - from helping with the day-to-day running of Bomarsund Junior Cricket Club to participating in church activities.
Maybe it's the weather but he's decided he's had enough a walking and takes a little jog.
0941: A "Well done Bill" from the crowd as Keiran Simmonds takes over and jogs along in front of crowds three or four deep on the roadside.
0943: Looking eager to get his leg under way is Samuel Smith, 12, who gives the crowd a wave as he sets off. Not sure how stable his torch looks though.
Samuel has Duchenne muscular dystrophy but has immersed himself in sport with an enthusiasm. He plays powerchair football and his goal scoring skills ensured National Premier League status for his team.
0946: Chariots of Fire plays as the flame is passed to Christopher Heaps, 23, who organised and completed the C2C cycle route on foot, and in stripy y-fronts, running on average a marathon per day for five consecutive days - following the death of a school friend in 2010.
It still seems to be raining in Ashington as Caroline Harvey tweets: "Attempting to see the very soggy Olympic torch with my little buddy."
0953: The flame is handed to James Chapman who will carry it over the River Wansbeck on the south side of the former mining village. Ashington then gives way to Choppington, two of the three big mid-Northumberland collieries known by those who worked there as A,B (Bomarsund) and C.
1001: Fourteen year old Mark Strasshine became North Tyneside's deputy young mayor and a member of the UK Youth Parliament, two years ago. He has worked with young people across North Tyneside and beyond on issues that concern them, listening and representing their views to adult decision makers.
1003: Oh dear - the weather seems to be getting wetter for the torchbearers.
BBC Newcastle's Tony Jones is in Morpeth awaiting the flame arrival said: "It is lashing down. It's going to be a wet and windy affair."
BBC Look North's Mark Tulip is on the torch convoy truck. He said: "It is actually as wet now as it has been all morning - very heavy rain. The crowds are a little bit down but there are huge numbers despite the weather."
1005: Heading towards Guide Post is Warneford Kilgour, 43, who donated a kidney to his father. The person who nominated him says: "All of my family are so proud of him."
Later the flame will go to Bedlington - where Look North's political reporter Mark Denten tweets this picture: "Bedlington street parade is about to head off ahead of torch arriving."
1012: If you've just signed in, our picture gallery shows some of what you missed from earlier in the day.
Hello and Happy Birthday to Matthew Ketchell who tweets: "Nice of LOCOG to direct the torch through my hometown Whitley Bay and past my flat in Sandyford - on my birthday! They shouldn't have."
1014: Finishing with a high-five to the next torchbearer is Rachel Charlton, 16, who has overcome a spinal disability to succeed in an array of achievements. The person who nominated her says: "She has tackled bullying head on, particularly coming to the rescue of friends suffering from the effects of bullying, and is now a Diana Anti-Bullying Ambassador.
1018: Adventurer Moira Matthews, 60, has run on all seven continents, plus the North Pole, and in more than 100 marathons raising money for various charities.
1020: Continuing the explorer theme is Louis Philippe Loncke, 35. He has undertaken several international solo expeditions, often in deserted territories. Last summer he crossed 600km of Belgian channels in a kayak.
Dave Wealleans tweets: "Can't wait for the torch to get to Cullercoats."
1024: The torch relay team seem to be having trouble with the door on relay vehicle "Phoenix Two" which carries the police bicycles and spare torches.
The officers are trying to fix the door and meanwhile the relay has been temporarily halted.
1029: It seems they have given up trying to fix the door and we're being told the vehicle has been left behind so the relay can get back on schedule.
1031: Earlier Jane Rodger, 48, carried the torch through Choppington. She has been a volunteer for the charity, Send a Cow, for eight years. The charity works with poor families, teaching them the skills they need to build new lives free from poverty and hunger.
Send A Cow tweeted: "Our trustee and volunteer Jane is carrying the torch in Choppington very soon! Super excited!"
1035: That small hiccup will have delayed the flame's arrival into Morpeth, but only by a few minutes. Let's hope the crowds haven't given up and gone home.
1038: Phew, they're still there. BBC Newcastle's Tony Jones is in Bridge Street, Morpeth, where he said: "It is an absolutely remarkable turn out - it is a fantastic size. There are lots of school children here as well waving flags - there is a great atmosphere building up here."
1042: Doing a little jig and kissing his torch as he goes is David Taylor. He's being tracked by a woman dressed in shorts and crop top, brave considering the weather.
1052: We've lost pictures due to a lack of 3G coverage in the area and hope to have them back for you asap.
1057: The pictures were back momentarily and we could see the convoy vehicles heading towards Plessey Woods Country Park where the crew will take their morning comfort break for about 20 minutes.
1111: BBC Look North's Alison Freeman is in Blyth where the torch is due to arrive in the next 30 minutes. She says: "Hundreds of schoolchildren waiting in the pouring rain for the torch to arrive. High spirits, waving flags."
On Facebook Sue Jackson says: "The people of Northumberland haven't let the torch down even in the pouring rain we come out to celebrate and welcome it, well done all proud to live up here."
1120: Sarah Bennett, who will be carrying the torch later at 15:40 in Wallsend Road, North Shields, said: "I am very excited and very nervous.
"I feel so privileged to have been chosen. It will be amazing to share the moment with all my friends and family."
She is a female basketball development officer who helps disadvantaged women and girls across Tyne and Wear take part in sport.
1125: Starting us off in Hartford after the break is Emily Harrison who runs past a banner saying "Go Emily".
1127: Stood waiting for the torch in Bedlington, BBC Look North's Mark Denten said: "It really is the North East spirit to come out in this weather. It's the hardcore."
1130: BBC Look North's Alison Freeman says: "Children from Horton Grance Primary School are waving flags and jumping up and down trying to keep warm as they wait for the torch in Cowpen Road, Blyth."
1131: A short road journey now into Bedlington.
The first torchbearer here is Patrick Cree, 17, who was diagnosed with Crohn's disease when he was 10. Since then he has had more than 50 operations, a colostomy and many episodes of being fed by a naso-gastric tube for six-week periods.
Now he has defied the medics to row and golf at club level and represent the North East region in rowing at national level.
1139: Huge cheers and probably the biggest crowds of the day so far as Barbara Gorton carries the flame while Chariots of Fire is played out, not for the first time today.
1146: A short trip in the coach before Erwen Wulteputte, 25, is due to carry the flame in Blyth. Erwen had heart surgery as a youngster but it doesn't stop him from participating in his favourite hobby, horse jumping.
1148: It's very wet and windy in Blyth - windshield definitely required to light the torch.
Jonny Burt seconds that. He tweets: "I'm wet and cold but can now say I have seen the Olympic torch."
1155: We're told torchbearer Carl Greaves raised significant funds for forces charity Help for Heroes by cycling from Lands End to John o' Groats.
A nice big hug between Carl and the next torchbearer John Liddell.
1157: John Liddell is loving this! He stops to hug a spectator and points at the crowd in which a steel band is playing.
Perhaps inspired by the music, he and the next torchbearer Kendra Bone bump derrieres the flame is passed on.
1203: We just caught the sound of an announcer whipping up the crowd in Blyth before the torch makes a scheduled sponsor stop.
1213: Adam Lee passes the flame to Emma Casson, 36, who has recently returned from Uganda. She spent two years and all her savings, working with local communities to develop small bio-gas units where the farmers turn the waste products into gas for cooking.
1214: If you're wondering how the torch stays alight on wet and windy days like today, have a look at the weather testing it underwent.
1215: A peck on the cheek from Emma to David Mcelhoney, who is a foster carer. He and his wife look after babies and very young children in foster care.
Since 2008 he has raised nearly £15,000 for The Fostering Network. In 2008 he walked the Inca Trail in Peru and in 2010 he walked part of The Great Wall of China. Today he is only having to jog 300m.
1220: This is John Brock III running with the flame, he's the Chair and CEO of Coca Cola Enterprises which is based in Atlanta.
On this particularly rainy day, some people are leaving it until the last minute to see the torch, in a bid to stay dry.
Chelsie Littlemore tweets: "Waiting on the Olympic Torch. Watching it on the internet so I won't get soaked waiting for it, then off to see it with my own eyes."
1223: John Brock passes the flame to basketballer Kendal Barclay , 16, from Newcastle, who was nominated for being "a fantastic role model for the U12 girls that she coaches". She passes the flame to Muhtar Kent.
1229: A high five from Muhtar for Wendy Russell-Hall, 46, from Edinburgh who has been co-running a Battle of the Bands event for the last three years to support various charities. She also supports two cancer charities organising door collections and taking part in sponsored walks.
1233: The last torchbearer before lunch is, appropriately enough, Rona Watson. She is involved with the Cyrenians Good Food Charity in Edinburgh which collects food from wholesalers and retailers which is at sell by date or no longer required and distributes it to various shelters and homes throughout the city and surrounding areas.
1237: Rona carries the flame to Blyth Sports Centre where the relay will take a break for lunch. It is due to resume in about an hour with the first torchbearer scheduled to run at 13:42.
1240: People are adamant that the rain is not dampening their spirits. Fab Flournoy from the Newcastle Eagles basketball team was in Blyth to see the torch and said "It's a fantastic vibe despite the weather. The atmosphere is fantastic."
And in Morpeth earlier these boys knew exactly how to stay dry and positive.
1245: While you're waiting for the torch relay team to have its lunch break, why not have a look at a selection of pictures from today's relay.
You can also check out where the flame will travel to for the rest of the day and see what adventurer Bear Grylls will be up to in Newcastle.
Faheem Aslam tweets "Can't wait to get soaked later to see the once in a lifetime olympic torch come to newcastle.woohoo.cameras at the ready"
SimonRoffe tweets: "Lovely atmosphere on @My_Metro packed with schoolchildren in waterproofs and GB flags on the way to Whitley Bay for the torch relay."
1319: After lunch we have a couple more torchbearers in Blyth before the flame takes the coast road to Whitley Bay.
John Gosling tweets: "Looking forward to getting wet and welcoming the Olympic torch to Cullercoats #onceinalifetime"
At the moment it's 13C and raining in Whitley Bay. Want to know what the weather is doing on the Olympic torch relay route? Hover over the green dots on the map to see the forecast for up to three days before it reaches you.
1339: First out of the blocks after lunch is Leslie Welsh, 51, head coach of the Empire School of Boxing in Blyth. His life was changed in April 2011 when his daughter Julie died moments after giving birth to her son, Isaac. She was 28. The person who nominated him says: "Despite his loss Les still remains as committed to improving the lives of his boxers whilst fundraising for the Amniotic Fluid Embolism Foundation."
Les leaves behind Blyth Sports Centre under a shower of gold confetti.
1344: Two years ago Katharina De Pillecyn was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Here she is running with the torch and the person who nominated her says: "She still remains a positive woman who makes plans and strives to realise her dreams. She's a fighter who has decided that what happens to her body cannot get to her spirit."
Before her illness, Katharina used to climb a mountain every year, and has scaled the Himalayas and Kilimanjaro.
NorthEast 2012 Games tweets: "We're not letting the weather dampen our spirits for the #OlympicTorch but it is wet and very cold, so wrap up warm and wear waterproofs."
1351: Waving to the screaming crowds on the final leg in Blyth is April Murphy, and the brollies are no longer needed as it's brightened up a little.
1355: The rain may have stopped in Blyth, but if you're heading out to see the Olympic flame this afternoon, take a brolly.
Or be prepared, like this youngster, to fashion some weather protection from a Union Jack flag!
1359: Could things be looking up weather-wise? BBC Newcastle's Tony Jones says: "Waiting at Tynemouth. It's not raining and the sun has come out."
1401: Next on the route is Whitley Bay and a road trip along a very murky coast road to get there.
1405: Torch relay fans are wrapping up warm in Whitley Bay where we're told nearly 3,000 schoolchildren have lined the route.
1410: It's a far cry from those balmy days in Cornwall when the relay first started as torchbearer Michelle Armstrong sets off along The Links which is flanked on both sides by supporters.
1415: Just passing St Mary's Lighthouse on St Mary's Island. It can only be reached between the tides, via a short causeway, and visitors can climb the 137 steps up the tower to the lantern room to take in views of the North East coast.
1417: Bit of detective work for you now... Jonathan Miller, 26, is the brother of a Paralympic athlete. This person says: "He has always supporting me brilliantly and watched me compete in three Paralympics and every time he's been there I've won, so I hope he'll be there watching me in London."
Does anyone know who this Paralympian could be? Facebook or Tweet us @bbc2012
1419: Homemade torches aplenty as Jonathan is cheered on by large crowds.
1423: BBC Newcastle's Russ Ward watching the torch in Whitley Bay says there's great enthusiasm along the relay route. Police outriders have been giving high-fives to excited schoolchildren.
"Nobody minds the weather," he adds. "It's because people up here are hard as nails! This is what the Olympic spirit is all about."
1424: This is Jordan McCartney, 17, who we're told is devoted to swimming and helping others. He moved to Blyth after years at Tynemouth swimming club so he could also join a life-saving club.
1427: The 17-year-old lifeguard said he was thrilled to get the chance to carry the torch.
Jordan's mum, Avril, nominated him and was there to see his big moment at Whitley Bay.
1428: Here's one of our younger runners, Sam Lefeber, who's just 12. He's loving the crowd's attention, though!
1430: James Mavin, 16, is a cadet for St John Ambulance.
The person who nominated him says: "He regularly serves our community by administering first aid during local functions, as well as working in a school shop to raise money for a 'Roots and Shoots Club' in order to provide pots of bedding plants for some retired people on the estate."
1433: This is Hilary Brooker-Carey, 54, who is known as the "Bird Woman of Amble" and has devoted her spare time to caring for and monitoring the wildlife of the area - in particular the eider ducks of the Coquet Island and the estuary.
Hilary has a healthy following of fans running alongside the seafront keeping up with her leg of the relay!
1440: With that enthusiastic torch-kiss, there's a quick hand-over in the BBC mothership, with Jane Mower passing the text commentary baton to Michael Hirst. Good afternoon!
We'd love to include your thoughts on the torch relay so far, so if you're heading out to see the Olympic flame, or following all the action from the comfort of your computer at home/in the office, get in touch - we won't tell your boss!
Tweet us - @BBC2012 or drop us a note on our Facebook page and we'll post your messages here as and when possible.
1443: Fair point from Richard Woods who tweets: "Look at that sea! Anybody would think it was a November storm!"
Even so, there's a festive atmosphere, and Nick Graham's one of those who's in the spirit - if not the sea - tweeting: "That was amazing in whitley bay. Such an atmosphere. Brother lives on route so off to his in wallsend now for party!"
1445: Current torchbearer John Fletcher, 46, works as a volunteer and fundraiser for the Teenage Cancer Trust and over the last few years John and his band "The Whodlums" have raised more than £20,000 for the trust at Newcastle RVI Hospital and other local charities.
1452: It's a case of like mother, like daughter for Jessica Morrison, 15. Jessica's mum carried the Olympic torch in 1984 through the streets of Alnwick, on its way to Los Angeles.
Her mum says: "For her to literally follow in my footsteps would be wonderful for me and give her a lasting sense of pride and achievement - I should know."
1456: Thanks for all your messages. Hi to Peggy Trynton across the pond, who tweets: "Thanks for torch cam - I watch every day from here in the USA. Brings back lovely memories from visiting the UK!"
Closer to home, an early hello to Mark Flexman, who tweets: "Ive been watching @BBC2012 Olympic Torch relay on and off since the start and cant wait for you to come to Bournemouth on 13th July."
Sue Prasad says: "Glad to see the public out in such numbers to celebrate the torch relay - even though the weather is not supportive!"
Quick shout out on behalf of Susan Young who tweets: "Give a shout to all the Boyd family from Amble waiting to cheer James as he carries the torch through North Shields." Go James!
And hi to Andy Connolly, who says: "Having relocated from North Tyneside in September the torch is making me homesick. Even if I don't miss the weather!"
Thanks for following all the action with #bbctorchcam - it's great to have you with us.
1458: The next torchbearer is Sophie Adamson, 24, whose mum recently lost her battle with cancer.
The person who nominated her says: "Before she slipped away Sophie managed to tell her mum that she got a 1st Class degree. We are all so proud of her and to get a 1st with everything that went on. It makes her a hero in my eyes."
1501: Wahey! Quick word from our man in Tynemouth, Adrian Pitches - "Big turn out on the Broadway. And it's not raining!"
1506: This is Stuart "Neil" Weir, 31, who had a serious operation on his knee which kept him off work for six months. As soon as he was mobile again he was determined to get fit and set himself the challenge of doing the Great North Swim. He also completed the mile swim in Lake Windermere in 35 minutes and 55 seconds.
Thankfully the rain's staying at bay so it's not such a swim through Tynemouth - Good to see spectators leaning out of first floor windows to show their support for the torch!
1510: Thanks to those getting in touch via facebook. It's great to hear from you.
Helen Goodchild says: "Watching from Calgary, Canada. Great to see the Geordies out in force. Just another sunny day at the coast...NOT!
Mark Pearce writes from a little further south: " My family are watching it live, but I'm stuck in a meeting in the US. Great to be able to watch it go through Cullercoats on live feed though - thank you!"
Closer to home, Martine Pickering writes: "Watching from Chester UK and have just seen my Belgian cousin in Whitley Bay (Frank Hernould)." Looking good, Frank!
Keep the messages coming!
1513: Here's some local colour from our team on the ground: BBC Look North's Mark Tulip, who's travelling with the torch convoy, says: "Torch fever has gripped north Tyneside this afternoon. Thousands of people are flanking the streets in an almost continuous line."
BBC Newcastle's Tony Jones in Tynemouth adds: "On Tynemouth's Front Street it stopped raining at three and we have watery sunshine. The public are out in force, from children to pensioners, and there is some spectacular street entertainment. It's a happy, bursting Olympic throng."
1522: Hi to those of you - like Amy-Louise Slassor who waited for the torch to reach North Shields before she left the house to see it on front street - who are heading out to see the Olympic flame this evening.
It should be great craic, with the likes of Jack Charlton carrying the flame in Newcastle, Bear Grylls zip-wiring from the Tyne Bridge, as well as the party in Quayside. Have a look at our news story for more info on timings - and have a great night!
1525: Here's one for the photo album - a torch and a lantern!
Torchbearer Leslie Welsh was greeted by Mayor Kath Nisbet and Ronnie Campbell MP in Blyth.
1528: Current torchbearer Katie Willis, 25, volunteers as an explorer scout leader and Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme instructor, providing a programme of weekly activities for more than 100 14-18 year olds in her area.
In 2008 she helped lead a team of Explorer Scouts to Uganda to volunteer at the Kavule School for the Deaf, where they built a chicken house to help the school earn a sustainable income. Katie is currently organising a return trip.
She's running through North Shields streets bathed in sunshine, with several-thick crowds lining the streets and waving flags - a warm Tyneside welcome!
1533: Crikey, #bbctorchcam has picked up a really international following via social media!
Ανδρέας λει (did we pronounce that right?) says hi from the Corfu mafia...
Richard O'Connor is watching from Sydney, Australia,
Alison Russell saw her cousin James 'Hotspur' Boyd carry the torch from Vancouver,
Brian MacElwee has been watching from Ottawa since day one. Good to have you with us again, Brian.
And closer to home Abigail Munro has enjoyed watching the Oylmpic flame travel from Lands End to now and can't wait to watch it come to Fleetwood next Friday.
Closer still, Stephen Hodgson was the biker following behind the Police escort from Blyth to Tynemouth road. He writes: "Excellent atmosphere and excellent afternoon. Great to see the support. The police were fantastic, the best relay so far."
Thanks again for all your messages.
1536: This is local lad Peter Lilley, 24, who has been a member of Tynemouth Volunteer Life Brigade, the busiest volunteer coastal rescue team on the east coast, since he was 14.
He has assisted with cliff rescues, searches for missing people, and shore-based support for rescues at sea. He is the youngest ever captain of the Brigade, and also serves as press officer and assistant secretary.
1540: Quick shout out to Dorothy and Derrick Cragg in North Shields, aunt and uncle of BBC2012's Chris Jeavans, who's running the show in television centre today. Glad the sun's come out for you in the north-east at last!
1542: And a flame haired member of the security team pops the Olympic flame back into a davey lantern for the short convoy stint to Howdon a few minutes up the A193... The relay is staying nicely on schedule today. Good timekeeping!
1545: First up with the torch in Howdon is Ryan Richardson, 17, who joined Cramlington Table Tennis Club in the summer of 2005 at the age of just 11.
He has since competed in local and national competitions and represented the county and the league at Cadet, Junior and Senior level. At the Northumberland Tournament he took the Cadets title in 2008 and 2009 and the Juniors title in 2009, 2010 and 2011. He has also qualified as a UKCC Level 1 TT coach and helps at his school and the Club.
1548: BBC Look North's Mark Tulip, who is travelling with the torch convoy, says: the crowds in North Shields were "absolutely massive".
"Noise levels swelled as we passed schoolchildren. I have never seen so many smartphones and cameras."
1550: This is Kate Upshall Davis, who works for the charity Crisis in Newcastle, and was nominated by her proud father for all her work helping homeless people back into the workplace and a more normal life.
Having been very unathletic at school, she's a recent convert to running, and has done the Great North Run twice, the Edinburgh half marathon, the New York marathon. She is currently training to do the Great North Swim on Windermere at the end of this month.
She has raised more than £6,000 in a couple of years for her two charities, Crisis and the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.
1552: Breaking news of another sort, this. The BBC's Priya Patel, who's running the show on #bbctorchcam's horse-box, says the horn on the media vehicle has broken - probably from overuse!
1603: Quick tea break here in Wallsend - pop the kettle on! We should be back on the road in about 15 minutes.
1619: We'll be up and running again shortly and some damp news from Wallsend where the BBC Newcastle's Russ Ward says it has started raining again - but there are still thousands of people lining the streets!
1621: Hats of to the current torchbearer Jim Purcell, who has raised thousands of pounds for charities over the past 25 years through his distance running - which he is still doing at the tender age of 90.
Jim describes himself as a local hero who still helps out at deaf club, adding that carrying the torch would fulfil his lifetime of accomplishments.
1626: Jim made good time and we're still ahead of schedule as Charlotte Young takes up the torch. The 18-year-old joined her local Air Cadet squadron three years ago, has risen to the rank of flight sergeant, and is currently on course to become one of the youngest cadet warrant officers in the region.
Having fought off competition from across the UK, Charlotte was picked to represent the Air Cadets at hockey. Earlier this summer she climbed the Pyrenees as part of an elite team of cadets, as well as attending various camps and events. She spends her free time planning fun evenings and tutorials for her cadets, while studying for her A Levels in Maths, Biology and Chemistry (she is predicted 3 As), and preparing herself to enroll in the RAF as a Medical Officer.
1633: This is hockey supremo Jen Jones, 18, from Stocksfield, who was diagnosed with epilepsy three years ago but has not let that get in the way of her sporting goals.
She has played for Morpeth Ladies Hockey club, Captained Northumberland County U18s and taken part in hockey at a regional level. She is also a county netball player and was very proud to take part in the schools national netball championship two years in a row.
As a volunteer, she has been on the Northumberland Hockey youth panel for 2 years, organising and speaking at events, introducing guests, and raising funds. She has also been part of the Hockey Action Group in Northumberland, presenting the views of youth hockey players across the region. She has gained her coaching award and is assistant coach to one of the county teams.
1635: BBC Newcastle's Russ Ward in Wallsend says everyone seems in great spirits, despite the rain. "There are people hanging out of windows," he says. "It really seems to have caught the imagination of everyone. People are waving flags and inflatable versions of Olympic torches."
1642: This is our final convoy section of the day, as the Olympic flame is popped back into a davey lantern for a short stint on the A167 to its final destination of the day, Newcastle upon Tyne. Warm up that zip wire!
1646: And as we approach, BBC Newcastle's Matthew Raisbeck says people are already starting to gather on Newcastle's Quayside ahead of Bear Grylls' zip wire stunt from the Tyne Bridge - and, of course, the evening celebrations. Anyone would think the city had a reputation for partying...
Meanwhile, North Tyneside council tweets: "OlympicTorch has now left North Tyneside. Around 25,000 people showed their support and did the borough proud!" Great turn-out!
1650: The first runner in a packed Sandyford Road is Mark Stockman, 19. In addition to his heavy rugby league playing schedule for Gateshead Thunder U18's, Scotland U18's and the College Academy Mark still manages to find time to volunteer at his local Community Club.
Mark has volunteered with Wallsend Eagles rugby league club for the past two years, assisting with the U16's squad and team manager at two regional player development centres.
He was named North East Young Volunteer of the Year and was runner up for the North Tyneside "Junior Sports Volunteer" and "Junior Sports Personality".
1655: Quick pause there as runner 110 Ryan Elliot has his trainer laces tied by a member of the security team - they're multi-skilled, those men (and women) in grey!
1701: Local lady Mary Laver, 65, has been severely disabled for 25 years with Rheumatoid Arthritis, making her wheelchair-dependent. In 2010 she drove her power chair from Lands End to John O'Groats, completing the 997 miles in 24 days 9 hours and getting into the Guinness Book of Records as well as raising £1,000 for the RBL.
1707: We're told police officers are already starting to line Olympic torch relay route at Percy Street in Newcastle. Big crowds expected...
1709: Lenni Papadopoulos, 19, from Gateshead, has nerve damage and slipped discs in her lower back but loves swimming with a passion and wants to represent her country in the Paralympics...
She says she'd love to inspire others who have similar problems to persevere as there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.
1716: BBC Look North's Mark Tulip, who is travelling with the torch convoy, says every vantage point is being used as the torch comes into Newcastle city centre.
There's a massive crowd out to greet the Olympic flame, with torchbearers coming up including the likes of Jack Charlton and Louis Smith.
1719: Controversial news, this, from BBC Newcastle's Fiona Marley Paterson at Saint James' Park, where the torch had been scheduled to complete a tour of the pitch.
"The Olympic Flame won't now be doing a lap of honour around the pitch at Newcastle United's ground - apparently because the ground is still sporting 'unofficial' advertising."
Meanwhile, Amier Gany is enjoying his moment with the flame, and waving to an ecstatic crowd lining the streets.
1721: This is Graham Heath, 45, from Stocksfield, who was nominated for being a "beacon for basketball", coaching the Newcastle East Griffins which he founded almost a decade ago.
Graham has brought on professional players in the UK and USA, and supplied players to team GB. Prior to being a basketball coach, Graham was a professional Ice-Hockey player. You'd be ill-advised to try and wrestle the Olympic flame from him!
1726: Occupational hazard this, I'm afraid - the great Jack Charlton is running with the flame and the sheer volume of 3G usage in the area - as people capture the moment on camera-phones and share it with their friends - has crashed our coverage. Apologies for the lack of images. We'll bring you the pictures as soon as we can.
1730: Here's the moment Jack Charlton took hold of the Olympic flame from Graham Heath - great scenes in Newcastle and a great moment for the Olympic torch relay.
And the #bbctorchcam footage is - momentarily - back, showing Jack, walking with a stick, greeting the crowds and getting a great reception!
1739: Here's another familiar face - Louis Smith became Great Britain's first male gymnast to win an individual Olympic medal since 1908, when he took bronze in the pommel horse event in Beijing four years ago.
The 23-year-old from Peterborough, who has been involved in his sport since the age of four, is a genuine contender for another medal in just a few weeks' time.
1747: BBC Newcastle's Nick Barnes says one lane of the Tyne Bridge has been coned off to keep traffic running smoothly in anticipation of the arrival of the torch.
Even though rain has returned, people have been gathering on the bridge for the past hour to get a good view of it on the zip wire across the river Tyne. Not long to wait now!
1752: This just in from the BBC's Andrew Hartley who has just seen a large group of torch carriers leaving St James Park. "In their all-white kit they look like a cricket team," he says.
1755: Current torchbearer Andrea Thompson lost her son Jordan to leukaemia nearly five years ago, and was inspired to set up a charity in his honour.
The Toma Fund is run by Andrea with the help of friends and family, and has so far raised more than £350,000 for children and young people fighting against cancer.
1757: Andrea passes the flame to a drenched, but smiling, Jennifer Hall. The 18-year-old has put lots of work into helping the Manzini Charity which raises money for and helps establish a close bond between St Anthony's School and an orphanage in Swaziland. As well as raising money for the charity, Jennifer visited the orphanage and taught some of the children English.
An update from BBC reporter Catherline Lee, who says that BBC staff from the local studios in Newcastle - popularly known as the "pink palace" - popped outside to join members of the public crowd cheering on the torch at the junction of Hunters Road and Barrack Road. We'd expect nothing less!
Next torchbearer up is Gillian Hardy who sounds like a busy woman! She runs her local Brownie group in Newcastle, leading fundraising efforts for trips and outings. She is also a school governor and runs an after-school Fair Trade club for Year 6 children, as well as getting involved in initiatives to promote science in schools and raise the aspirations of local children.
There are crowds gathered outside St James' Park as the torch is passed on in the shadow of the statue of the legendary Sir Bobby Robson, the much-loved former manager of the Magpies. He seems to look on approvingly as torchbearer Joanna-Louise Lacey takes over the honour of carrying the flame.
There's an energetic Chinese dragon in close attendance as the next torchbearer, Amy Priestley, strolls off with the torch. Not quite sure if it's part of the plan or not, but there are no problems as the trusty police keep everything running smoothly.
As the torch arrived at the Sir Bobby Robson statue outside St James' Park, BBC Newcastle's Fiona Marley Paterson reported on a "real Newcastle United" welcome, with people chanting "Toon, toon, black and white Army".
Lucky old Amy Priestley got a good long spell with the torch, and is only just now handing over the flame to Terry Eccles, a tireless charity worker who supports homeless people and overseas charities as well as working four days a week as a volunteer NHS ambulance driver.
Reporting from the Tyne Bridge, BBC Newcastle's Nick Barnes can see Bear Grylls being kitted out in his helmet and gear. Soon he will be hoisted to the top of the Tyne Bridge in readiness for the torch's zip wire ride. Watch this space...
Next up to carry the torch is Gobinath Murugesapillai, a first aider for St John Ambulance who has actually provided CPR during a West End musical! He also ran the London Marathon to raise funds for the organisation as well as volunteering at local schools as a mentor for international students. He obliges the cheering crowds, four or five deep at some points as people finish work, with a few little leaps in the air.
Torchbearer Jessica Colborn, who suffered a stroke at just 18 years old, has put her energies not only into recovering after it left her with left-sided paralysis and right-sided facial palsy, but also into raising awareness of the condition by working with The Stroke Association. She is also taking her exams and hopes to study medicine at university.
Jessica reaches the end of her stint with the flame and in an increasingly crowded Newcastle centre, hands over to Nicky Miles, who ran the London Marathon to raise funds for her cousin who has cystic fibrosis.
Another update from BBC reporters on the scene, who say that there are hundreds of people waiting on the Quayside, where the rain has eased.
Sue Turner from Newcastle had come early with her five-month-old son, James, to get a good viewing spot."I just want to be able to say to him that he was here," she said.
Simon Wells, a teacher from Heaton, came down to the Quayside after watching a friend carry the torch in North Shields. He said: "I was in Sydney for the Olympics in 2000. It was awesome. I've been telling the children about it and we just had to come here."
Torchbearer Enrique Wolff is now holding the Olympic flame and sets off at a reasonably jaunty pace. Probably not quite as quick as during his playing days, when he was an Argentina football international, captaining them during the 1974 World Cup in Germany.
After finishing his sporting career he made his debut as a journalist and is now a well-known face for ESPN in Latin America.
We've left torchcam now to give you shots of Chief Scout Bear Grylls, who is carrying the torch in a rather unusual way: he wil travel by zip wire from the Tyne Bridge. He will slide down the wire over the River Tyne into the parade ground of HMS Calliope, the Royal Navy's riverside training centre.
We can see Bear Grylls now on a raised platform gradually taking him towards the top of Tyne Bridge. We can probably assume that the adventurer and Chief Scout has got a good head for heights...
Sorry about the pictures you are probably seeing at the moment as we prepare to watch Bear Grylls zip over the River Tyne. Please bear with us over the ad hoc sound - this is live TV for you!
Torchbearer Maria Espinoza, a 2008 Olympic gold medallist in taekwondo, jogs across the Tyne Bridge with the Olympic flame in hand. She will now wait for the cherry-picker to come back down to earth, to take her up to meet Bear Grylls some 200 feet up the bridge.
1858: Thanks to Damien O'Neil for sending in this overhead shot from his helicopter of the murky Tyne Bridge as Bear Grylls prepares to take on the zip wire descent!
Maria Espinoza has her hard hat on and is walking into the cherry-picker which is expected to take a couple of minutes to take her up to wear Bear Grylls, who is looking pretty calm and collected as he waves to the crowds below.
1901: BBC News Online's Rachel Kerr says the quayside is packed. People are everywhere, leaning out of windows and on balconies and crowds on both sides of the river. The rain is holding off as the cherry picker is raised to the top of the arch of the Tyne Bridge and the start of the zip wire ride
1902: BBC Radio Newcastle's Nick Barnes spoke to one of the runners travelling alongside the torchbearers and she said she'd love to have a go down the zip wire. Sadly, it was decided that Bear Grylles would do it alone
1903: A fairly unusual 'kiss' for the Olympic flame as Bear Grylls leans over a barrier as Maria Espinoza reaches up from below. That part of the operation is sucessfully managed and we're almost ready to go...
1904: Bear Grylls is strapped in by his left hand while he carries the torch in his right. Talking into the camera up there with him, he says: "We're ready to go... it's the spirit of endeavour something I know a lot about and I'm going to need it now..." And off he jumps, travelling along the zip wire at great speed to huge cheers from the watching crowd!
1907: We're going to leave our torchcam coverage there for the day, as the evening celebration gets under way on the Quayside.
1909: The evening's last torchbearer is William Hardy, a talented 14-year-old disabled athlete who excels at both swimming and cricket. He had both legs and half his left arm amputed after suffering from meningitis as a toddler.
1912: Thank you very much for joining us for today's coverage of the torch relay. We're signing off the live coverage for the day, but you can join us again on Saturday when day 29's proceedings get under way from Gateshead at 06:25 BST.
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