Labrinth, Beverley Knight, James DeGale and Gordon Banks bring Olympic Torch to Brent

Musicians and sportsmen joined members of the public in bringing the Olympic Torch to the streets of Brent today (Wednesday).

Soul singer Beverley Knight was among those lifting the flame to the skies as the Torch made its way through the borough.

Hackney singer songwriter Labrinth was also part of the parade as almost 100,000 people cheered on the torchbearers.

The loudest applause was for two sportsmen with long and illustrious links to the borough, with Harlesden’s own gold medal winning boxer James DeGale given the honour of running part of the leg.

World cup winning goalkeeper Gordon Banks also took possession of the flame past Wembley Stadium – the scene of his 1966 heroics.

There were also local torchbearers who took part in the Brent leg with Inderjit Bhalla from Wembley - who won gold at badminton at the British Transplant Games - and Keith Gussy-Young - a volunteer for the Brent Schools Football Association – wowing the crowds.

Mayor of Brent, Councillor Michael Adeyeye said: “We have just witnessed a historic moment and a once in a life time opportunity for the people of Brent.

“Council staff have been working very hard over the past few months to ensure the Brent leg of the Torch Relay was a safe and successful event for everyone. This included over a hundred council volunteers marshalling the streets as the Flame passed through the borough.

“It was great to see such a large number of local people lining the streets and cheering on our inspirational torchbearers. In just a few days we will be sprinkled with Olympic magic yet again as Wembley Stadium and Wembley Arena host football, rhythmic gymnastics and badminton.”