Holt torch map

Special home-made bunting will greet three of the country’s 8,000 Olympic torchbearers as they pass through Holt on July 4.

Members of the town’s Adult Day Services made the 5,000 individual flags ahead of the big day and the mile-long creation has decorated the Georgian town since the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

The torch will arrive in Holt at 3.52pm and the torchbearers will carry it in turn along High Street, Market Place and Station Road. It will leave Holt at 4.01pm.

Fourteen-year-old Alfie Hewett, of Norwich, is one of the nominated people to carry the torch.

He has already endured open heart surgery and a rare hip disease which means he is currently wheelchair bound. He has overcome lots of personal challenges and now plays wheelchair tennis, basketball and archery and his dream is to compete in the 2016 Paralympics.

Alfie described carrying the torch as a “great gift” and was excited to take part in the event.

The torch will only be in the town for a relatively short time because it is being run continuously at approximately four miles per hour.

The only pauses come when a runner finishes his or her 300 metre stint and holds their torch against the next runner’s torch, passing the flame from one to another. This is called the ‘torch kiss’.

Holt Town Council clerk Di Dann estimated that ‘several thousands’ of people would attend the event.

She said: “We are absolutely delighted the torch is coming through the town and it’s a really exciting event and we hope everyone will embrace it.

“We have been joint planning with North Norfolk District Council (NNDC) and we will be extending the pavements in town to accommodate the people.”

Michael Seger, 49, of Norwich, will also be carrying the flame through the town and was nominated by his partner for overcoming a trouble youth and finding inspiration in running.

And he will be joined by Pete Smith, 70, of Wymondham, who was nominated for his contribution to football in the local area.

Keith Johnson, leader of NNDC, said: “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for the residents of north Norfolk to see the Olympic Torch come through the district.

“I would encourage all residents to make every effort to support the torch and its carriers.

“I am very pleased so many school children will be involved on the day and their schools are to be congratulated for allowing them to take part.”

During the day there will also be a sports event at Holt Primary School for the pupils.