IT was a huge shot in the arm for Britain when it was announced, all those years ago, that Britain would host the 2012 Olympics.

But since then arguments have simmered over everything from the cost to the effect on traffic.

There comes a time when you have to either stop the bickering or put it on the backburner. That time is now.

We have all enjoyed watching the Olympics in the past, be it Steve Redgrave’s rowing success, Kelly Holmes’s amazing double or just the strength and agility of the the world’s top gymnasts.

Now it’s our turn and Britain should unite in support of our Olympic and Paralympic stars who have been working so hard in the hope of fulfilling dreams.

It is exciting that so many local people are taking part in the torchbearing. And that the route comes through our towns.

We may not all have tickets but we can feel the buzz of hosting the event.

There’s no gold medal for whinging.