It's estimated a billion people around the world will be watching tonight, as London 2012 gets underway.

Organisers promise the opening ceremony - directed by Danny Boyle - will be spectacular.

Before that, the Olympic torch will complete its 70-day, 8-thousand mile journey around the UK.

Big Ben will ring continuously for three minutes at 12 minutes past 8 this morning to mark the start of the Games.

Churches around the country including here in Dorset will also join in.