Torchbearers shine thanks to community support

The communities of Yorkshire and the Humber finally bade farewell to the Olympic Torch this week after a true Yorkshire welcome.
 
Following months of meticulous planning, the joint regional policing operation, to ensure everyone’s safety during the relay, has been hailed a huge success.
 
Officers from all four forces of the Yorkshire and Humber took part in what was the largest joint-policing operation ever undertaken in the region.
 
Glorious sunshine brought more than 250,000 spectators out across South Yorkshire during the Olympic Flame’s two-day visit.
 
South Yorkshire Police Assistant Chief Constable Max Sahota, who commanded the operation for the YatH region, said: “People across our county came out in force during the Olympic Torch Relay and showed the world what a fantastic place it is. More importantly, communities in Barnsley, Sheffield, Rotherham and Doncaster showed great pride in our local Torchbearers, giving them their moment to shine.
 
“I would like to pay tribute to everyone who has worked with us over the past 18 months to ensure the safety of this brilliant event. Everyone involved has worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth and safe event for all, from local councils, other emergency services, volunteers and the Olympic organisers.
 
“For most of us, this was a once-in-a-lifetime event and presented a unique opportunity to be part of a world-wide spectacle. As a police force, working side by side with our regional colleagues, we feel privileged to have been involved.”