The Olympic torch is on its way. Shakespeare got the nod this weekend as it passed his birthplace on its round-Britain tour. At the Tower of London 4,700 bronze, silver and gold Olympic Medals are under lock and key, like the Crown Jewels. Across the river at Tower Bridge five interlocking Olympic rings are suspended from the parapet. The countdown … [Read more...]
The Orbit, a 2012 Olympic Games Icon
Is this London's Eiffel Tower? The ArcelorMittal Orbit, is a towering new sculpture created for the 2012 London Olympic Park. By sculptor Anish Kapoor and engineer Cecil Balmon, by day its twisted frame gleams vermilion, by night it glows gently with soft light. There is much debate - of course. Some local the story of its creation has become … [Read more...]
Don’t Rain on my Parade
It was the spectacle of a lifetime. Rain was forecast. It did not make any difference. Over one million lined the banks of Old Father Thames. They came in twos, threes, in groups and in families. They camped out overnight in the rain to get the best spot. They brought Thermos flasks of hot tea, sandwiches picnics and coronation chicken. … [Read more...]
Diamond Jubilee Window Shopping
The flags are a-flutter above London streets, but it is at street level where the action is. Shop windows are all about The Jubilee. From food to clothes, from china to tea-towels, the windows follow just one theme. Some are very elaborate. Harvey Nichols in Knightsbridge has gone all out with different vignettes. Inside Harrods food hall giant … [Read more...]
Countdown to the Royal Jubilee
London is awash with flags and bunting. Its time to party. Arrivals at London Heathrow are greeted with Union Jacks, souvenir booklets and a chance to write a message to the Queen. In Central London serious flags hang above Regent and Bond Street. Over at Buckingham Palace preparations are in full gear. Roads leading up to the Palace … [Read more...]
