THE crowd boogieing on Bournemouth beach stretched back as far as the eye could see.

Around 12,500 people packed on to the sand for the funky show of music and dance.

Local children from Bournemouth Sings kicked off the programme with a specially written song Waves and Elbow’s One Day Like This.

Next up were Samsung’s DJ and dancing street crew, before Twist and Pulse and rapper Wretch 32 performed.

The atmosphere was electric as Charlie Rogers, 16, raised his torch to light the cauldron.

Charlie, who was nominated for being a Sailability volunteer, said: “It was the most incredible experience ever.

“The crowd at Pier Approach were completely supportive.

“I loved it and I’m very proud.”

Samantha Blackburn and son Jacob, 14, from Charminster, watched from the front row.

Jacob said: “It has been brilliant. We came because we thought it would be fun – I will remember it forever.”

Mayor Phil Stanley-Watts gave a speech to the masses, joined by nine Children’s Promise youngsters, born on the December 20, 2004 when London won the Olympic bid.

“Thank you to LOCOG for bringing the torch here and for allowing us to feel the passion of the games,” he said.

Sailing silver medal winner Ian Barker, from Christchurch, was welcomed on stage.

Wife Shelley Barker and sons Benjamin, six, and James, four, looked on proudly.

Mrs Barker said: “It has been fabulous. We’ve had a really good time and the atmosphere is amazing.”

Young street dancers from groups including Shake put on a toe-tapping show to a remix including God Save The Queen.

Fireworks at 10pm ensured the night ended on a bang.