Drawing on the theme of fifty, the Baton was carried by 5000 runners passing through 500 places in 50 days. The relay traversed the whole of the UK, stopping overnight in venues so that the Baton could change hands and to allow for evening entertainment. The Baton’s journey culminated in Manchester at the opening of the Commonwealth Games on 25 July 2002.
Star Hire provided one of its SS11-09 Mobile StarStages for the tour and managed the technical production elements of sound, lighting, power and video screens for the evening entertainment events. They were also responsible for the design, manufacture and fitting of all branded imagery on the stage and all the associated vehicles.
A team of 11 set up the full production package each day, in preparation for the arrival of the Baton at each evening celebration. A representative from the Queens Jubilee Baton Relay Team would move on two days ahead to liaise with councils and prepare the venue. Lowri Williams was project and stage manager for the tour working closely with engineers for the 10sq.m mobile screen provided by Screenco and the PA system provided by Richard Nowell Sound Services. A 6,000 strong crowd gathered in Manchester’s Albert Square for the final evening event, with the Baton carried by footballers Ryan Giggs and Stuart Pearce. Radio 1 stars Mark and Lard introduced the entertainment for the event, featuring 10cc with a range of other local talent.United Colours of Sound joined the line up in Manchester, having already played at a selection of the previous venues on the tour.
(Ruth Rossington)
