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http://www.thisissouthdevon.co.uk/news/Celebrations-2012-flag-hoisted/article-287707-detail/article.html

Flags were raised around South Devon on Sunday to celebrate the hand-over of the Olympics to London.

Torquay, Dawlish and Dartmouth all hoisted flags after London's mayor Boris Johnson received the official flag from his counterpart in Beijing during a spectacular closing ceremony.

Celebrations were held across the region to declare the capital host city for the 2012 Games.

Residents enjoyed celebrations featuring music and sport to mark the occasion at civic buildings, market places and shopping centres.

In Torquay, special guest Mike Adams helped raise the flag at Torre Abbey, and the Olympic torch he carried for the 1948 Olympics was also on display.

In Dartmouth, the flag was carried to the south embankment where it was hoisted by junior members of sports represented in the annual regatta: sailing, rowing, swimming, tennis and athletics.

Teignbridge Council's chairman Cllr David Weekes raised the flag amid an afternoon of sporting fun at Dawlish Warren. Entertainer and singer Mark Price, also performed throughout the day and a grand firework display was due to take place last night.

Cllr Anne Fry, Teignbridge Council's member for recreational services, said: "We are blessed with some incredibly gifted athletes in Teignbridge, many of whom we see at the Teignbridge Sports Personality Awards and the Devon Youth Games.

"Olympic fever is sure to be gripping the country over the next four years, and what better way to get things started than by showcasing some of Teignbridge's best sporting talent."

Flags were raised at landmarks such as 10 Downing Street and the National Maritime Museum.

London 2012 Organising Committee chairman Sebastian Coe said: "We are delighted so many local authorities share our excitement and are proudly displaying the hand-over flag to mark this very special moment on our journey to 2012."