A HUGE celebration has been planned to mark the arrival of the iconic Olympic Torch in Wirral.

Birkenhead Park is set to be the focal point as the borough hosts the Olympic Torch Relay on June 1.

The Relay, which begins on Saturday, May 19, at Lands End in Cornwall, makes its epic 70-day journey around the UK, covering approximately 8,000 miles, before it arrives in London at the Olympic Stadium.

The flame will light the cauldron at the Opening Ceremony on Friday, July 27, to signify the commencement of the Olympic Games.

And the official Wirral route of the flame has now been released with it arriving at around 5.45pm to go along Gorsey Lane, Wallasey, then via Duke St, Park Road, Park Road North, and Ashville Road, before entering Birkenhead Park.

It will then be carried through Birkenhead Town Centre and Hamilton Square, before being taken across the River Mersey from Woodside on one of the famous Mersey Ferries.

And to mark the momentous occasion, Wirral Council is organising displays of sports and fitness activities in Birkenhead Park from 4pm.

The free event will feature a full programme of sports workshops and will follow a special schools event in the park earlier in the day.

Councillor Lesley Rennie, Wirral’s cabinet member for culture, tourism and leisure, said: “We are delighted that Wirral is on the route of the Torch Relay, it really is a once in a lifetime event.

“We hope as many people as possible will turn out on the route and join us in Birkenhead Park to enjoy some of the activities on offer. Hopefully the weather will be kind to us and we can create a real party atmosphere.”

The Mayor of Wirral, Cllr Moira McLaughlin, said: “The event in Birkenhead Park will provide an opportunity for people in Wirral to share in the Olympic spirit and enjoy a memorable community event.”

Crowds are expected to line the route of the flame and the council is hoping to set up new sporting projects that will form a “lasting legacy” for Wirral.

More information about the event in Birkenhead Park and the Torch Relay’s route through Wirral will be released in the run up to the event, along with details of special Olympic-themed activities.

A new area on the council’s website also goes live today with details of events, and information about the route.

It will also carry more detailed information for residents and businesses along the route as it becomes available.