Essex: Police ask for patience as torch relay nears (From Braintree and Witham Times)

Essex: Police ask for patience as torch relay nears

8:53am Tuesday 3rd July 2012 in News

Police have urged motorists to be patient as the county braces itself for the arrival of the Olympic torch.

Motorists have been advised to check that their normal route will not be affected and, if it is, to expect some delays.

Short delays can be expected on Friday as the torch arrives in Essex from Ipswich.

It will be visiting Colchester then on to Hatfield Peverel, Heybridge, Maldon and Rayleigh, before a lunchtime event in Southend.

It will then visit the Olympic Mountain Bike venue in Hadleigh, before travelling on to Basildon, Grays, Herongate and Brentwood.

In the evening it will proceed to Hylands Park in Chelmsford for the Sparks Will Fly celebrations.

Traffic speed restrictions will be in place on the A414 Three Mile Hill and surrounding area for the evening celebration and motorists not attending the concert are recommended to find alternative routes where possible.

The relay will continue on Saturday, travelling from Chelmsford to Harlow and into Hertfordshire.

Police have warned that roads along some sections of the route may be closed for some time before the torch arrives and until it has passed.

There will also be a rolling road closure moving with the torch, but the police emphasised that traffic control arrangements have been designed to ensure that traffic flows return to normal as quickly as possible after the convoy has passed.

Spectators have also been advised to plan their journey and to look after their belongings, especially bags, purses and phones.

Assistant chief constable Sue Harrison said: "The Olympic torch relay celebrates local heroes, recognising their contribution to society and their achievements.

"For our local communities and every torchbearer, the relay represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

"It is our job to ensure they, and the spectators, enjoy their moment safely and securely.”

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