Olympic Torch to be welcomed back to the Cotswolds tomorrow (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Olympic Torch to be welcomed back to the Cotswolds tomorrow

9:00am Saturday 30th June 2012 in News By Ian Craig

EXCITEMENT is building as the Cotswolds prepares to welcome the Olympic Torch back to the region tomorrow.

The torch is scheduled to arrive in Chipping Campden at 12.40pm tomorrow, and weather forecasters are predicting sunny intervals and a high of 18C.

Although this is reasonably low for this time of year, NHS Gloucestershire have issued a series of guidelines for people heading out to see the torch:

• Find a place to watch the torch relay in the shade, especially between 11am and 2pm when the sun is at its hottest. Cover up with a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses and a t-shirt.

• Take extra care of babies, children and teenagers as young skin is more easily damaged. Keep babies in complete shade and provide shade for prams and buggies if possible.

• Use a sunscreen with at least SPF 15 – the higher the better – and apply it generously and regularly.

• Remember to stay hydrated – drink cold drinks, like water or fruit juice regularly. Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol. Bring your own water or make sure you can buy it.

• Anyone appearing to suffer heatstroke should be moved somewhere cool, and their clothes should be loosened to cool them down. A damp cloth can also be used to cool them down. St John’s Ambulance will be on hand at the Noel Arms car park to provide first aid.

As police will be redirecting traffic along the relay route, congestion and delays should be expected.

The NHS are advising anyone travelling to hospital or a doctor’s surgery around lunch time on Sunday should allow for delays.

CDC’s Olympic Torch co-ordinator Jamie Nesbit said anyone travelling to the area by car should make sure to leave early.

“There is free parking available at three sites around the town but it is limited so it would be appreciated if motorists could car share whenever possible,” he said.

He added he hoped people would take appropriate precautions to combat the heat.

“It is astonishing how much heat a large crowd can generate so it will probably feel a lot warmer than 18C if the sun comes out,” he said.

“We dealt with a few minor cases of heatstroke when the torch came to Cirencester in May and our stewards and the first aiders are ready to lend assistance if they encounter any similar problems in Campden.”

He also advised spectators to be aware of the potential dangers the expected large crowds could cause.

“Large crowds are continuing to turn out wherever the Olympic Torch relay takes place,” he said.

“While we are confident that we can handle thousands of spectators along the route in Chipping Campden, the stewards have been instructed to clear a safe passage for the torch bearers, and – for safety’s sake – we would ask spectators to heed any advice they provide.

“I am sure that it will all be very good-natured, and everyone should be able to see what is going on.”

“The excitement really is building as Campden’s moment to shine approaches. We are hoping that it will be a memorable day for all involved.”

For more tips on protections yourself during hot weather, visit nhs.uk/Livewell/Summerhealth