Thousands expected to greet Olympic torch in Hove today

Thousands of people are expected to turn out to see the Olympic torch as it arrives in Hove this afternoon (Monday 16 July).

The torch relay set off from Portsmouth this morning and will reach Hove via Chichester, Bognor, Arundel, Worthing and Lancing.

The torch relay in Hove will start from King George VI Avenue – known locally as Snaky Hill – and travel down Nevill Road to Hove Park where crowds are expected to gather.

The torch is expected to reach Hove Park at 6pm where community arts group Same Sky is working with schools and community groups on a range of activities for youngsters from 4pm.

Just after 6.10pm the torch is due to be carried along Old Shoreham Road, down The Drive and Grand Avenue and along the seafront to Adelaide Crescent.

It will then be taken via Palmeira Square to the County Ground where it is due to arrive just after 6.30pm.

A ticket-only event is being held for 10,000 people at the cricket ground, starting at 5pm. It features Brighton and Hove hip-hop duo Rizzle Kicks, Brighton and Hove Youth Big Band, the Carousel Choir, the dance act Twist and Pulse and a fireworks display.

Same Sky, which organises Burning the Clocks, is putting on a free show featuring a “sky dome” in Hove Park after the torch has left.

The rain is expected to lighten then stop this afternoon although the wind may get stronger. When the torch relay sets off for Withdean from the Old Steine in Brighton at 7.20am tomorrow (Tuesday 17 July) it should be dry and with barely a breeze.

Brief, rolling road closures are expected to lead to some temporary traffic delays both this evening and tomorrow.