Waking up on Sunday morning to snow falling – I thought to myself… this is a first. Having been involved in many of the landmark London 2012 events, from the bid celebrations to IOC visits – never before had snow been a factor!

Still though, with my thermals under my volunteer uniform, off I went to central London to do my bit for the Beijing Olympic Torch Relay. We were looking after the Torchbearers at the hotels before they started their run. Other LOCOG people were on the buses with them before and after their run.
 
Being a volunteer for a major event like this is a great experience. Whether it is fetching water for Paula Radcliffe, sharing a table with Sir Trevor MacDonald or watching Theo Walcott relax after holding the Torch - there were some great opportunities for star spotting.

But for me the really exciting bit was talking to the young sporting hopefuls and community representatives who carried the torch. Some of them had just returned from trials to compete in Beijing, others were being recognised for years of community service. But without exception they were excited and inspired by the Olympic Torch and what it stands for. Amongst what at times was a difficult day this passion and enthusiasm was a real inspiration and a reminder of why we do what we do.

There were also some interesting practical lessons we learnt - all adding to the growing pile of knowledge and experience of major events across LOCOG.

And I couldn't resist getting a snap of me with the Torch:



And I finally got to see the Torch in action in Canary Wharf held by Leon Taylor (Diving silver medallist in Athens) and at the North Greenwich Arena.