THE party atmosphere continued in Wareham as stilt walkers and bicycle stuntmen wowed the 8,000-strong crowd ahead of the torch procession.

Spectators packed the roadside, which pulsated with the sounds of whistles and drums.

Revellers, already in the party mood because of Wareham carnival week, came out in force to support the torch bearers.

Even the sun put in an appearance.

Lucy Moore, 32, said: “It has been brilliant, a really good day. Everyone should be proud of themselves for supporting this like they have today.”

Huge cheers went up as the torch came into view, around 2.30pm.

The bearers on the Wareham leg included Jon Gill, 49, of Poole and Sue Gillingham, 51, also of Poole.

After swapping over, the runners were quickly whisked away in the official Torch Relay bus – one of many vehicles following the procession.

Purbeck District Council leader Gary Suttle said: “This was a fantastic opportunity to show the world how special Purbeck is and I am immensely proud of the welcome the torchbearers received from the thousands who came out to watch.”

The party was set to continue well into the night at the town’s quay.