EXCITED spectators stood on walls and stepladders to watch the torch as it was carried down Blandford Road.

At some parts, the crowds lining the pavements were more than 15 people deep. A total of 7,800 attended.

Children waved Union flags and blew whistles to encourage the torchbearers.

These included 17-year-old football coach Andy Howe, of Broadstone, Bournemouth University student and prolific fundraiser Eva Reichard, 25, of Bournemouth, Lush cofounder Mo Constantine, 59, of Dorset and 15-year-old Joe Arundel of Bournemouth.

Assistance dog Udo, who accompanied 53-year-old Wendy Morrell of Broadstone, was remarkably unperturbed by the huge amounts of cheering and applause the pair received.