Having visited over 1,000 communities around the UK and celebrated the achievements of just over 8,000 torchbearers to date, the Olympic Torch Relay has travelled the River Thames to conclude its 8,000 mile journey.

Four times Olympic gold medallist Matthew Pinsent carried the torch earlier this morning, before it concludes its journey at the Olympic Stadium in east London.

Pinsent lit a ceremonial cauldron on board the Royal Barge, which was used during the Diamond Jubilee celebrations earlier this year. 

Sebastian Coe, chair of LOCOG, said: “Support for the torchbearers has been immense with over 13 million people lining the streets across the UK cheer them on.

“Thank you to each and every person for giving the Olympic Flame such a magnificent welcome and celebrating the best of the UK with us.”

Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport Jeremy Hunt said:  ‘The Torch Relay has been absolutely fantastic.  The enthusiasm and support showed by millions of people up and down this country has been overwhelming.  It has showcased the very best of Britain.’

The finale to the public participation in the Torch Relay will see Amber Charles, the last Torchbearer on the River Thames carry the Flame to Tower Bridge for a final photo in front the Olympic Rings.

The Flame will then remain out of public view at City Hall until it appears at the Opening Ceremony.