Olympic torch replica launched in Beijing

Beijing (CNS) –- The launch ceremony of a replica torch for the 2012 London Olympic Games was held in Beijing on Wednesday.

Xiao Min, vice chairman of the Chinese Olympic Committee, and Sebastian Wood, UK Ambassador to China, attended the ceremony. The London Organizing Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games also sent a congratulatory message.

Xiao Min said the replica offers China an opportunity to get to know the 2012 Olympic torch and to experience the intense air of the upcoming event.

The Olympic Flame will arrive in the United Kingdom from Greece on May 18, and then be carried 8,000 miles (12,875km) by 8,000 bearers in a 70-day relay ending at the Olympic Park.

The flame will be used to light the cauldron in Stratford's Olympic Stadium at the opening ceremony of the Games on July 27.