FOUR-time Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy is urging people to take to the streets to welcome the London 2012 Torch Relay when it comes to town.

The flame is being passed to Britain today at a ceremony in Athens. David Beckham will be given the torch before it is transported to Cornwall for the start of the relay.

Beginning in Land’s End on Saturday, the Olympic Torch Relay will visit Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch and Purbeck on Friday, July 13 and Saturday July 14.

Around 8,000 runners will carry the torch on its historic journey to the London Olympic Stadium for the opening ceremony on July 27.

Sir Chris told the Echo: “The 2012 Torch Relay is going to be a huge event – the Olympic Games are not just about London, it’s about the whole country.

“It’s an opportunity for every community to experience the London Olympic Games and support their torchbearers.

“They have all worked incredibly hard already to be nominated and recognised for making a difference in their community.

“Now that the eyes of the world will be on them as they carry the flame they will want to ensure that they are confident in their ability to deliver.

“Knowing that you can handle the torch for your 300m in the spotlight will help you make the most of your moment and enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Among those carrying the Olympic flame in Bournemouth will be Lloyds TSB Local Hero Nathan Bailey, 18, a gymnast who missed out on a Team GB this time round but has set his sights on Rio 2016.

See where and when the torch will be passing through Dorset with our interactive map. And if you're a torchbearer with a Facebook account, tag yourself in our photo