On Friday we braved the rain and walked into town to watch the Southend leg of the Olympic torch relay. I have to say, I'm really glad that we did. Not only because it is nice to say you saw a little bit of sports history but because despite the rain, we had a nice couple of hours out.

We ended up standing in a really good spot at the barriers so was able to see everything and take some good photos and the people we were standing with were really chatty and funny which made waiting all the more enjoyable.

A lot of people came out to see the torch despite the rain and I heard on the news later that day that Essex had given them the biggest welcome so far with the turnout of crowds coming to see it. Nice to know!

The torch passed and Patrick was gutted that it hadn't been Olympic swimmer Mark Foster carrying it past where we were standing. So - with the rest of the crowds - we scurried further down so he could get a glimpse of him while he made a little speech regarding the Olympics.

Particular highlights of the morning included a man grumbling about the barriers being a 'disgrace' because he couldn't walk over to the other side (obviously not a fan of crowd control!) and the fact that a lot of people don't give any consideration to strangers who have also come out to see the torch and Mr Foster give a speech and so stand in front of you and put their umbrellas up.

Just get wet next time!!!