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Biggest Relay Run in the World Carries Torch to Parliament
The world’s largest relay run, being staged to promote international friendship, was set to hit the streets of the Capital today.

The World Harmony Run started in Lisbon, Portugal, on March 2 and will end in Budapest on October 28.

During the run, 250, 000 runners across 45 European countries are expected to participate.

The torch relay is being supported by sporting heroes such as nine-time Olympic gold medallist Carl Lewis.

He said: “The run is all about carrying a flaming torch, and passing it from hand to hand and heart to heart. By carrying the torch people will be bridging the cultural and social barriers, and all the boundaries that separate nation from nation.”

It was scheduled to arrive at the Scottish Parliament at noon today, before joining the Easter parade along Princes Street.

One of the hundreds of people expected, Lothians Green MSP Mark Ballard said: “I am very proud to welcome the run to Edinburgh and the Scottish Parliament.

“The run is a truly inspiring event, linking communities around the world and prompting us to envisage a world united in harmony.

“The vision is strongly linked to that of the people of Scotland for our parliament – characterised by wisdom, justice, compassion and integrity. I hope the runners will find Edinburgh and the parliament very receptive to their mission of goodwill.”

Runners will also be joined along the route by local residents, who will pass the torch from hand to hand.