Olympics Fever: London Calling

From our Guest Blogger, currently fighting the crowds, Matthew Stott, Cole-Parmer UK

For the first time since 1948, the greatest sporting event in the world, perhaps the universe (can’t be sure), is to take place in England. Yes, sports people from countries far and wide are descending upon London as it gears up to host the 2012 Olympic Games.

The Olympic torch has been making its way around the country, handed from noble civilian, to minor celebrity, and back again, as crowds line the streets, cheering them on like mad people. ‘Go on!’ They cry, ‘You carry that flamey stick! Do it for Great Britain! Do it for Her Majesty! (The Queen)’ And do it they do, as the Torch winds its merry way towards the capital.

A forecasted four million people are expected to flood into the city during the games. Which is a lot. A lot a lot. Mention this to a public transport worker, and a fearful look, tinged with grim, hopeless acceptance, washes over their quivering faces. They know it’s coming. If you’ve ever travelled on the Tube in London during rush hour, you’d have to wonder how anyone else could possibly fit. But fit they will. Somehow. Probably. Suck your belly in.

Shiny new sporting thunderdomes have been erected, special Olympic lanes have been painted on the roads so those involved can speed towards their destination unhindered by black cabs and surly van drivers; and the city has been spruced up all pretty and nice and that with banners and posters. London is ready.

 The gymnasts are limbering up, the sprinters are checking their running spikes, and the pole vaulters’ are questioning their life choices. The Olympic Games are coming, and it’s going to be (as long as we win a sack full of gold medals) fantastic!

 Aaron Higgins, Operations & Warehouse Assistant (right), holding the torch with the official local torchbearer