The Paralympic Flame

My folks and I went to the Paralympic Flame Festival tonight at Meadowbank Stadium to see the lighting of the Paralympic flame.

4 teams went to the highest points in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. At the top of Scafell Pike, Slieve Donard, Ben Nevis and Snowdon, they lit flames with flint. These were then taken to the capital cities and ceremonial cauldrons lit. The four flames will then travel to London to create the one united Paralympic flame. This is the flame from Ben Nevis.

We had a wonderful evening of entertainment including drummers, acrobatics and the very talented Joe McElderry. It pains me to say it, because these days I'm quite anti-xfactor and anti-tv really, but the guy really is a phenomenal singer. I wasn't expecting that! Hats off to him.

We also learnt a lot about the Paralympics, the sports, the athletes, the history. It's truly remarkable. The games kick off on 29 August - I know I'll be watching, cheering on Team GB. I hope you are too!