THE sun came out to welcome the Olympic Torch in Fareham as thousands lined the streets to cheer its progress.

The torch arrived by road after being flown back to Southampton airport from Jersey in the Channel Islands.

Crowds were whooped up into a frenzy of excitement by the sponsor vans who arrived at the Delme roundabout start with police motorcycle outriders.

They roared as the flame was lit at 4.30pm and held aloft by the first torch bearer Kim Hosier.

Five deep crowds gathered along the route through the town centre to catch glimpse on the flame.

Children took up prime spot on the kerbside grasping union jackets flags to wave its past.

Well wishers were hanging out of windows and from lamposts to get the best views.

Some residents brought out summer chairs and set up tables in their front gardens with food and drink as they entered into party atmosphere.

One gathering of sailing enthusiasts had hung out signal flags spelling out “happy Olympiad”.

Locals said they couldn't remember seeing so many people gathered for a public event in the town.

The flame was carried by twelve torch bearers from Lysses Path through the city centre, around Fareham Creek and out on to the A32 Fareham Road to Gosport.