Paralympic torch and relay route unveiled

The London 2012 Organizing Committee (LOCOG) has unveiled the Paralympic Torch on Wednesday to mark six months to go until the start of the Paralympic Games. Made from an aluminium alloy which was developed for the aerospace and automotive industry, the torch has been given a mirrored finish which means that its color 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 way from Stoke Mandeville to the Olympic stadium, where the opening ceremony will be staged on August 29. With part of the 24 hour relay taking place overnight, the reflective nature of the torch will help it shine brightly and stand out in the darkness. Sharing the core design attributes of the Olympic torch, the three sided form was inspired by the multiples of "three" identified across London 2012. One of these is the Agitos, the symbol of the International Paralympic Committee. The three Agitos encircle a central point to emphasize the role the International Paralympic Committee plays in bringing athletes from all parts of the world together to compete. In the same way, the three sides of the Paralympic torch encircle the Paralympic flame. "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," said Seb Coe, chair of LOCOG. "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." Over 3,500 people across the UK have been nominated to carry the Paralympic flame. From August 24 to August 27, 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. On August 28, the four flames will be united at the Paralympic Flame Lighting Ceremony at Stoke Mandeville, the spiritual home of the Paralympic Movement to create the London 2012 Paralympic Flame. This Flame will be carried on a 24 hour overnight relay to London and the Opening Ceremony of the Paralympic Games.