The atmosphere was buzzing as people waited for the torch to arrive in Strood.

The crowds started cheering and clapping as soon as they saw the blue light from the police escort appeared over Rochester Bridge, as the relay made its way along the A2.

There were pupils in their school uniforms waving flags and little ones proudly holding home-made torches.

Among those lining the streets was Selisha Hewer-Perrino, from Strood, who had brought along her one-year-old son Brandan, who was clutching a Union Jack.

She said: "We arrived about an hour before the torch to get a spot. I wanted Brandan to see the torch. There was a handover point right in front of us which was amazing."

Nikki Jack, also from Strood, said: "The atmosphere has been brilliant. It is lovely to see everyone getting into the spirit."

The torch was carried through the town along Commerical Road before heading out of Medway towards Higham on the Gravesend Road.