COMMUNITIES across east Suffolk are pulling out all the stops to welcome the Olympic Torch and enjoy their “moment to shine”.

The procession makes its way through Wickham Market just after 3pm on Thursday, where pupils from surrounding schools will relay a hand-made replica torch to meet up with the official version.

Alan Biddle, chairman of Wickham Market Parish Council, said: “I think it’s obviously very exciting and of course we are very much looking forward to it, admittedly with a little trepidation because we are not sure exactly what will happen but I’m sure it will be a fantastic day.”

The Olympic Torch then passes through Ufford where it will be welcomed by flag-waving youngsters from Eyke Primary school.

There will also be a barbeque held in the middle of the village before the torch makes its way towards Melton where it will kick-start the festivities.

The village is planning a not-so-mini Olympics to mark the occasion.

The free event is being held in the playing field from 4pm on Thursday, July 5, where members of the public will be encouraged to play sports such as football and rounders and even try new activities like falconry and Zumba dancing.

Bryony Abbott, chairman of Melton Parish Council, said: “We are hoping to see lots of families come along on the day to make it Melton’s moment to shine.”

The torch is then expected to draw huge crowds for its journey through Woodbridge.

To mark the event, Woodbridge Town Council and Melton Parish Council have helped bring together pupils from six different local primary schools to compete in various sports at Farlingaye High School.