OLYMPIC GAMES OF LONDON IN 1948

Olympic torch☝:                                              part3

London 1948 maintained the relay tradition of the Olympic torch, established in Berlin 1936,6 although with a very different approach. It was called "relay of peace" because it passed through several countries in Europe, symbolizing their union after the Second World War. It took place from July 17 to 29, 1948, with a distance of 3,160 kilometers and 1,416 relievers

The torch was designed by Ralph Lavers and there were three types: a standard one powered by solid fuel and made from aluminum, a special one powered by butane gas that traveled aboard the HMS Whitesand Bay and a third to enter the Wembley stadium, made stainless steel and powered by a magnesium candle.

The tour began with the lighting of the fire in Olympia. The Greek side moved directly to Corfu because of the civil war. The ship Whitesand Bay transported the flame to Bari and from there several relievers toured Italy, Switzerland and France. This route was diverted to Belgium and Luxembourg, after their governments requested to be part of the route, and returned to France for a boat trip from Calais to Dover. Although there were many problems, the 12-day plan was fulfilled and the torch arrived at Wembley only thirteen seconds later than planned.