2012 Olympic Torch comes to Brixton before on to Clapham

Marlon Devonish carries the torch at Crystal Palace stadium

A free public event in Windrush Square, Brixton will welcome the Olympic Torch to the borough on Thursday.

The flame will leave Camberwell at 12.10pm on July 26, passing along Coldharbour Lane before stopping briefly in central Brixton and continuing on along Acre Lane towards Clapham.

Stalls and live events in Windrush Square will draw the crowds on day 69 of the torch relay.

Cllr Sally Prentice, cabinet member for culture, leisure and the Olympics, said she was “absolutely thrilled” to hear that the torch would pass through Loughborough Junction and Brixton.

She told the Blog:  “It is a very special day for Lambeth and I hope as many people as possible will come out and line the route, and take pictures to upload on the Brixton Blog.”

Events on the day will aim to tie in the history of Windrush Square with that of the Olympics.

One special guest who will welcome the torch to Brixton on Thursday will be Dulwich and West Norwood MP and former Olympics minister Tessa Jowell.

Cllr Prentis said:  “The day will have a particular resonance for Tessa, who made a massive contribution to bringing the Games to London.

“It’s a great way to mark her involvement as it wouldn’t have happened without her.”

The torch will continue up Acre Lane and into Clapham before entering Wandsworth just before 1pm.

Today (Monday) the flame will visit Battersea Dog and Cat’s home before stopping at Wimbledon on route to Tooting Bec where Tim Henman will light a cauldron. Entertainment will be provided by band Rizzle Kicks, and feature a street performance from dance act Twist and Pulse.

Find out who will carry the torch through Lambeth at www.london2012.com/torch-relay.