Larne’s moment to shine as Olympic Torch set to make return visit

The flame will pass through the borough on Sunday, June 3 as part of its 70-day relay around the UK ahead of the London 2012 Games. It is expected to arrive in Glynn at about 12.30pm, before being carried through Larne along Bank Road, Circular Road, and Glenarm Road, finishing at Chaine Memorial Park at about 1pm.

From there, it will travel up the Coast Road though Drains Bay (1.15pm), Ballygally (2.13pm), Glenarm (2.34pm), before arriving in Carnlough at 2.50pm and continuing its trek across the province.

And it has been announced that the torch will make a return visit to the borough on Thursday, June 7 as it makes its forward journey to Scotland from the Port of Larne.

Members of the public are being invited to gather at Chaine Memorial Road between 3pm-5pm and wave the torch on its way as it makes its last stop in Northern Ireland.

Circus entertainers and live entertainment will be provided by Larne Borough Council and Bernagh Folk Band and dancers will be performing on stage from 3pm-4.15pm. At 4.30pm pipers, drummers and dancers will be performing along the shore line near Chaine Memorial Tower as the ship sets sails for Scotland.

Viewing of the torch will be at Chaine Memorial Road only, and it will be visible for a short time at around 3.35pm. There will be no viewing of the torch at Larne Harbour, so people are asked to keep this area free.

The council is also advising people to use the Leisure Centre, Curran Road or town centre car parks, as there will be no vehicular access to Chaine Memorial Road or Bay Road except for residents only.

A spokesperson for Larne Council said: “This is a great honour for Larne as we are the last stop for the relay in Northern Ireland. This is a once in a life time opportunity for our borough so come down to Chaine Memorial Road and line our beautiful coastline.”