Crowds gather to welcome Olympic torch to Barnet (From Times Series)

Crowds gather to welcome Olympic torch to Barnet

1:10pm Wednesday 25th July 2012 in News By Natalie O'Neill

Crowds cheered as the Olympic torch lit up the streets of Barnet today.

Olympic fever gripped the borough as hundreds of well-wishers lined the streets to watch Barnet’s torchbearers carry the flame across the borough.

Gunilla Lindberg, 65, started the Olympic Torch Relay in Barnet at 12.19 on day 68 of its 8,000 mile journey to the opening ceremony at the Olympic Stadium.

The sun was shining brightly as hundreds of people waved their Union Jacks and cheered with joy as the flame made its way through Hendon.

100-year-old Diana Gould carried the torch along The Burroughs to Middlesex University, where she was greeted by Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, Mayor of Barnet, Councillor Brian Schama and Middlesex University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Michael Driscoll.

A family from Edgware travelled to The Burroughs to watch the relay. David Gabb, 65, brought along his grandchildren Tali Douek, nine, AJ Douek, seven, Shiri Douek, four, and nine-months-old Jake Lewis.

Tali said: "It's very exciting that I got to see the torch. I just screamed."

Mr Gabb said: "It's been a fantastic experience. It's really uplifting.

"It was very special and this kind of event really highlights that the Games is for everybody. It really brings it to life."

Hilda Grice, from Burnt Oak, added: "We're thanking God for giving us this great weather. It's been a very enjoyable and educational day. I was very excited and privilieged to see the torch. 

"I will relish it forever."