Maria Miller, MP for Basingstoke, campaigned hard to ensure that the Olympic Torch came to Basingstoke, and was delighted when it was decided that it would pass through the town on Wednesday 11 July. Sadly, she was not in the end able to watch the Torch Relay herself as an important debate about Child Maintenance meant that her Ministerial duties kept her in the House of Commons.

Huge crowds turned out in Basingstoke to welcome the Olympic Torch and cheer on the inspiring torchbearers as they made their way through the town.

Maria said: “It is fantastic that the people of Basingstoke have had the opportunity to play their part in this historic event. People all over the world are watching this amazing Olympic Torch Relay as it zig-zags across the United Kingdom, and this really is Basingstoke’s moment to shine.”

Maria added: “I was sad not to be there, but the important thing is that it was a really proud day for Basingstoke and our community has been part of history today. I am sure that everyone who participated will remember this for the rest of their lives.”