Olympic Torch to light up the borough

Arriving at the famous Dunluce Castle, the Torch will travel onward to the River Bann in Coleraine and wave farewell at the iconic Mussenden Temple.

Up to 8,000 people will carry the Olympic Torch, 600 of which will be from Northern Ireland, and Council is facilitating local communities to create their own Olympic campaigns.

To celebrate the Torch’s arrival, Council will be supporting a two week programme of events, celebrating Sports and Cultural Olympiad which are the core focus of the Games.

The programme will involve a myriad of exciting events such as ‘Sports Comes To Town’, a glass blowing workshop, equestrian events, live music, art competitions and much, much more!

This extended June Bank Holiday weekend promises to be incredibly special.

As Coleraine Borough will be Northern Ireland’s first overnight stop for the Olympic Torch, Council will host an evening concert to light the ‘Olympic Cauldron’ in Portrush, on Sunday, June 3 - this free event will be ticketed.

This will be followed by celebration of the Diamond Jubilee on bank holiday Tuesday, June 5.

As part of Council’s ‘Giant’ themed events programme, the Olympic Torch Relay fits perfectly with other major events such as the Irish Open, the North West 200, Council’s International Airshow as well celebrating the 30th anniversary at this year’s Milk Cup.

The Mayor of Coleraine, Alderman Maurice Bradley, said: “This is such an exciting year for the Borough and I am so proud to be Mayor at a time which will see such a spectacular event coming here.

“The Borough of Coleraine is delighted to be hosting the Olympic Torch in June and Council has arranged a fantastic line up of events to celebrate this momentous occasion.

“I would encourage everyone to take the opportunity to get out there and show your support for local athletes and embrace the Olympic spirit by taking part in some of Council’s fantastic events.

“I also encourage children and adults of all ages to animate the route, wear bright colours and get dressed up, but more importantly enjoy what the Borough has to offer.”

For further information on the Olympic Torch Programme or any of Council’s ‘Giant’ events log on to www.colerainebc.gov.uk