Picture by Kelly Pike

Cannon fire and church bells welcomed the Olympic torch into Chatham, as hundreds of people lined the roads to catch a glimpse of the flame.

The highly-anticipated event was marked with a series of loud bangs from Fort Amherst as the procession made its way along Dock Road, past Medway Council’s offices.

People were out in force waving flags including Ann Lindsay, from Gillingham, who went along with her family.

Speaking before the event she said: "We are really looking forward to seeing the torch and the atmosphere. I went to the handover of the torch four years ago.

"We’re all big Olympic fans and I’m going to see the rowing take place in Buckinghamshire. That’s one event we’re meant to be good at so I’m really looking forward to that."

The crowds were kept entertained with street performers and there was a carnival atmosphere as the torch entered Dock Road at about 8.20am before making its way through Chatham bus station and on towards Rochester.

Soldiers stood to attention as they prepared to fire the cannons from Fort Amherst to mark the memorable occasion.

Benjamin Lee was one of the people responsible for firing the rounds.

He said: "I guess it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and instead of seeing it on TV it’s great to be part of it and see the atmosphere."

As the torch made its way past the crowds of people there were cheers and everyone was eager to see the flame.

Graeme Dolan, from Rainham, went along to the event with his family and he said it was absolutely great to watch.

Speaking afterwards he said: "It was well worth the wait. We are locals anyway but it gives us a real honour to be here. We are proud to be British.

"It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and it was also very emotional seeing the atmosphere. The only thing is it was over too quickly. It’s great for my whole family to be able to see this."