The Paralympic Torch has been given a mirrored finish which means that its colour will adapt to its surroundings. It will not only reflect the light from the Flame but also shine brightly on the teams of Torchbearers that carry it and the communities that it travels through on the Paralympic Torch Relay

With part of the 24-hour Relay from Stoke Mandeville to the Olympic Stadium taking place overnight, the reflective nature of the Torch will help it stand out in the darkness.

Multi-medal winning Paralympian Baroness Tanni Grey Thompson said: ‘The unveiling of the Paralympic Torch is an important part of the London 2012 Paralympic Torch Relay, as it will become the symbol that everyone recognises.

‘With six months to go until the start of the Paralympic Games, I hope this will help build on the growing excitement and inspire the teams that are in line to carry the Flame from Stoke Mandeville to London.’

Reflecting the UK’s talent in design

Designed by London-based designers Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby, the Torch was driven by a desire to reflect modernity and innovation.

It was created by working in partnership with Basildon-based product engineers Tecosim and Coventry-based manufacturers The Premier Group, reflecting the UK’s talent in design and manufacturing.

The three-sided form was inspired by the multiples of ‘three’ identified across London 2012 including the Agitos, the symbol of the International Paralympic Committee

Innovative concept

Four Flames will be lit as part of a new concept for the Paralympic Torch Relay, one each in London, Greater Belfast, Edinburgh and Cardiff. The four Flames will be united at the Paralympic Flame Lighting Ceremony at Stoke Mandeville to create the Paralympic Flame, with this Flame then carried on a Relay to London.

In addition to the Flame Festivals and Lighting Ceremony, 33 communities from across the UK will host a Flame Celebration over the August Bank Holiday weekend.

Seb Coe, LOCOG Chair, said: ‘With six months to go until the start of the London 2012 Paralympic Games, we are on track to deliver a great Games that will showcase some of the most inspirational athletes from around the world.

‘The Paralympic Torch Relay will provide the perfect start by involving people from across the UK in events celebrating the Flame and help the ignite passion for the Paralympics.’    

The three Presenting Partners for the London 2012 Paralympic Torch Relay, BT, Lloyds TSB and Sainsbury’s, have each carried out a public nomination process to find some of the most inspirational teams across the UK to carry the Paralympic Flame. There were over 3,500 nominations and the selection process is now underway.

Find out more about the Paralympic Torch

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