LONDON is hosting a heroes’ return later today, as Olympic and Paralympic athletes are celebrated in the capital – following their success at Rio 2016.
It’s the second homecoming parade this week, after celebrations took place in Manchester yesterday afternoon.
Rio 2016 was one of Britain’s most successful games ever, with athletes smashing their medal tally from London 2012 and coming second overall.
Team GB won 147 medals including 64 golds at the Paralympic Games and 67 medals including 27 golds at the Olympics, their biggest haul in 108 years.
Here’s everything you need to know about today’s event:
When is it?
The homecoming parade is taking place on Tuesday October 18, at 1pm – that’s today!
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: “We are going to put on a fabulous celebration in Trafalgar Square of the achievements of our athletes in Rio, which kept millions up half the night cheering them on, including me.
“They have inspired millions of people, I’m incredibly proud of their exploits and they deserve nothing less than a real heroes’ return in the heart of the capital.
“The exploits of our Olympians and Paralympians have thrilled the nation and I am delighted to confirm that we are arranging a real heroes’ return in the capital on October 18.
“It will be an opportunity to thank them, to celebrate their superhuman efforts and to inspire our next generation of athletes to follow in their path.”
What’s the route?
The main event kicks off in Trafalgar Square at 1pm, and goes on until 2.30pm.
The parade is then expected to continue down The Mall past St James’ Park to Buckingham Palace.
Judging by Transport for London’s (TfL) planned road closures, the parade may also continue down The Strand to Somerset House.
It could also head towards the River Thames, past the London Eye, towards Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament at Westminster.
How can I watch?
The best way to experience the celebration and soak up the atmosphere is to line the streets of Westminster on your lunch break.
It’s expected to stay dry, and there may even be a sprinkling of sunshine between midday and 3pm.
The parade is a free event, and you don’t need a ticket to attend.
The nearest stations to Trafalgar Square are Charing Cross, Leicester Square and Enbankment.
Westminster, Piccadilly and Covent Garden are also within walking distance – and may be less busy.
You can watch all the action on the big screen in Trafalgar Square, where there will also be live music.
For those who can’t make the trip to London, the event will also be broadcast live on BBC One and Channel 4.
READ MORE
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