Exeter prepares for Olympic torch ceremony

7,300 places have so far been confirmed for the 8,000 Torchbearers Credit: ITV Westcountry

Exeter held its launch for the Olympic torch bearing ceremonies that will take place over the weekend of the 19th - 20th May.

The chairman of the Olympic board for the South West David Fursdon, was at the launch at Exeter Cathedral and said it will carry with it the Olympic spirit as it passes through the region:

Stan Hacking, a retired Royal Marine from Exeter is seventy seven and is lucky enough to have been selected as a torch bearer. He said he's hoping for a nice flat route in the city centre and will feel very proud and emotional on the day.

Where is the Olympic Flame going?

Stan is the founder of a band concert band that was formed in 1984 and has raised over £265,000 pounds for local charities. He's also trying cope with cancer and is looking forward to the torch relay which he says is a great honour. There'll be a carnival atmosphere in the city over the weekend on what will be day two of the national Olympic torch relay.