With London 2012 fast approaching, local residents are waking up to the news that the Olympic Torch Relay is to pass through Winchester city and King's Worthy as it makes the traditional journey throughout the host country.
Announced on Monday 7th November, the flame will hit Winchester on the way to Basingstoke on Wednesday 11th July, as it takes in over 1000 villages, town and cities across the UK, where it will also take in Loch Ness, Mount Snowden and Stonehenge.
London 2012 supreme Sebastian Coe said: "We are thrilled to confirm that Winchester and Kings Worthy will act as host locations for the Olympic Flame, extending an invitation to people in the Winchester District to welcome the Olympic Torch Relay during its journey around the UK.
"This is the UK's moment to shine, and I want to encourage people to start planning how they can be part of this once in a lifetime opportunity and show their support for the inspirational Torchbearers chosen to carry the Olympic Flame as we count down to the start of the Olympic Games."
Winchester MP Steve Brine added: "Next summer we will be the centre of attention as the eyes of the world focus on London 2012. I am delighted that Winchester, and King's Worthy residents in particular, are going to be a part of this historic event as the Olympic flame will pass through our area."
More information...
You can check out the entire Olympic Torch route at http://www.london2012.com/olympic-torch-relay.