THE countdown to the Olympic torch arriving in Worcester began today as the world watched it being ignited in ancient Olympia.

The Greek gods gave their blessing at a traditional ceremony, which took place under baking sun in front of the ruins of the Temple of Hera in Greece – the birthplace of the ancient games.

Dressed in robes, a “high priestess” lit the flame from the rays of the sun, which had been reflected by a mirror – the only way the Olympic flame can be lit, according to ancient legend.

The flame will now travel through Greece before arriving in the UK on Friday, May 18, and setting off on a 70-day tour. It will be carried by more than 8,000 inspirational torchbearers through more than 1,000 cities, towns and villages.

The relay comes to Droitwich and then Worcester on Thursday, May 24, where its arrival will be marked with an evening celebration at Worcestershire County Cricket Club. It will stay in the city overnight before setting off the following morning on the next leg of its journey, through Malvern and into Herefordshire.

Worcestershire will have a second bite of the cherry when the torch returns to the county on Sunday, July 1, taking in Evesham and surrounding areas.