Preparing a welcome for the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay

A warm welcome is being prepared as Dover District Council continues to work with the local community and a range of agencies and partners to get ready for the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay. This follows news that the Olympic Torch Relay is coming to Dover for a major Evening Celebration on Dover Seafront on Wednesday 18 July, as well as the Relay going to Deal, Sholden and Sandwich on Thursday 19 July.

Dover District Council has been pleased to work with Dover Town Council to make preparations for events in the town. This has included representatives attending a special meeting organised by Dover Town Council yesterday.

Dover Seafront is one of 66 locations hosting an Evening Celebration as the Olympic Flame makes its way around the UK. The London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) and the three Olympic Torch Presenting Partners are staging the exciting entertainment shows. The celebrations will be free of charge, and will include a range of events involving the community.

As preparations continue for the Evening Celebration on Dover Seafront, DDC has confirmed it is looking to ticket this event, to ensure local people have priority to attend, and in anticipation of the large number of people expected. Tickets would be free and weighted to Dover District residents. Full details of any ticketing arrangements are currently being finalised, and further announcements will be made over the next month.

Cllr Paul Watkins, Leader of Dover District Council said: "This is a great opportunity for people in the area to get involved in celebrations as the Olympic Flame comes to Dover District, and we continue to work closely with the community and partners to prepare a warm welcome. We have been pleased with Dover Town Council's initiative of consulting with businesses and community groups to ensure an opportunity for all local people to participate in these events."

Full details of the Evening Celebration are currently being finalised. More information will be available through www.london2012.com or for more information on celebrations being organised around the district, see the DDC website at www.dover.gov.uk.