In pictures: Beijing Olympic relay

The Olympic torch is making its way across Beijing on a final relay ahead of the Games' opening ceremony on Friday.

China has increased policing for the Games, and security was accordingly tight for the relay.

Famous Chinese basketball player Yao Ming, who is 7ft6in tall (2.28m) , carried the torch across Tiananmen Square.

Overall, 800 people will carry the torch across the city over three days, ending with Friday's opening ceremony.

Many bystanders were keen to show their support for the Olympics.

Performers entertained the crowds who had gathered to watch the torch procession.

Traditional dancers displayed their skill beneath a giant portrait of Mao Zedong.

Those that could not make it to the relay watched the torch's progress on large TV screens.

Back

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Next