A SET of Olympic rings were towed down the Thames this afternoon to mark 150 days until the start of the games.
The structure, 11m tall and 25m wide, was towed down river, stopping for photo opportunities at the Old Royal Naval College, the O2 and the Thames Barrier before turning around and heading back.
The rings, which are reported to have cost more than £930,000, sailed through the lifted Tower Bridge at lunch time and reached Greenwich shortly before 3pm.
They were launched on their journey by London mayor, Boris Johnson, who used the occasion to announce a series of free cultural events in London this summer.
He said:
“From museums to theatre, and music to design, we have a reputation that is second to none and London’s finest artists and organisations are producing an exceptional range of brand new cultural events that will add to the excitement of hosting the Games.
“We’re creating the biggest festival of outdoor arts ever to be seen in the capital, as well as fantastic new work that will throw new light on some of our city’s lesser known landmarks and hidden gems. Wherever you are you will feel a part of the 2012 celebrations and experience a summer like no other in one of the most exciting cities on earth.'”
More photos from the Olympic rings on the Thames:
The rings passing the Thames Barrier
The rings stop in front of the the Old Royal Naval College
Two members of the King’s Troop were at the Old Royal Naval College as the rings arrived