WE STOOD across from Clifford’s Tower as the torch procession went by, having only just got there in time.

Everyone was in a great mood. The policemen were making jokes about the event by accepting their own applause and laughing away with those on foot.

Cyclists who were let through just ahead of the parade all looked crimson due to embarrassment but the crowd cheered them through in true British form.

Kids all around were very excited and were heard ‘awing’ in a great chorus when they thought the torch was coming through.

Their patience and enthusiasm was rewarded as the convoy eventually swung round the corner and the crowd erupted with cheers and flag waving.

A brass band was playing on the hill. I stood next to a woman who had missed the torch when it had gone through her town in Scotland. She was holidaying in York and she and her husband joined the cheering crowd to get a glimpse of the beacon.

That a brilliant atmosphere – the Yorkies have done good!

Ruth Eaves, Huntington, York.