Duo Jesters will perform in Hatfield on the day the Olympic Torch Relay passes through the town

THE 2012 Olympic Torch Relay arrives in Hatfield on Sunday, July 8. Here the Welwyn Hatfield Times looks at other activities and events taking place in the town on Torch Relay day.

The 2012 Olympic Torch Relay route through Hatfield

HATFIELD is set to welcome the Olympic Torch on the public section of the relay from 2.45pm at the George’s Gate entrance of Hatfield House.

The torch will have passed through Hatfield House, which is closed for a private event, prior to the public section of the relay.

It is hoped residents will line the two-mile route through the town and also stay in the town centre to enjoy the celebrations put on too.

Activities will take place in Market Place and White Lion Square, offering quick and easy access to the Olympic Torch Relay route.

A climbing wall

* To celebrate the multi-cultural aspiration of the Olympic Games, Hatfield town centre will host a Family Fun Day.

* Market Place will host Welwyn Hatfield’s first African market, featuring a flavour of the exotic and encouraging a cultural adventure for visitors.

* Radio station Jack FM will provide live entertainment on stage from electro-acoustic guitarist and vocalist Jesters, Square Dancers, a dance troupe and Glee Choir from the Top Talent Agency, as well as an African drummer and acrobat.

* In White Lion Square there will be BMX demonstrations, with the opportunity to have a go yourself, a climbing wall, inflatable ‘air hockey’ game and an interactive inflatable game called Under Pressure.

There will also be stilt walkers and balloon modellers, children’s rides and Wenlock, the official Olympic mascot, is also set to make an appearance.

Hatfield Town Centre co-ordinator Victoria Saurin said: “This is one of the biggest events we’ve ever hosted in Hatfield, spanning the whole of the town centre.

“It will offer a variety of activities and entertainment for everyone.

“We’re especially excited about the inaugural appearance of the African market, which will really add something a little bit different and a fantastic international feel to the proceedings.”

She added: “The events will be happening all day, so there will loads to see and do, besides the Olympic Torch Relay.

“We look forward to welcoming people throughout the day. Come along and enjoy the party.”

A host events are also planned for Welwyn Garden City as the Torch Relay passes through earlier in the day.