The Olympic Torch is here

Businesses were today enjoying a boost with hundreds of thousands of people flocking on to the streets of the Black Country and Staffordshire to see the Olympic Torch return to the region.

Record crowds were gathering on the streets to witness the flame passing through Lichfield, Great Wyrley, Walsall, Wolverhampton, Dudley and Sandwell.

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Businesses were today enjoying a boost with hundreds of thousands of people flocking on to the streets of the Black Country and Staffordshire to see the Olympic Torch return to the region.

Record crowds were gathering on the streets to witness the flame passing through Lichfield, Great Wyrley, Walsall, Wolverhampton, Dudley and Sandwell.

And retailers today told how they have brought in extra stock to help meet demand after weeks of mounting excitement and planning.

Sandwell Council leader Darren Cooper said: "This is going to be a huge boost for Smethwick, bringing in tens of thousands of pounds at least."

Crowds of up to 30,000 were expected in Walsall alone.

Regeneration chief Adrian Andrew said: "This could be one of the busiest shopping days in the town centre in many, many years especially in the current economic climate."

Traders have been making special preparations to capitalise on the increased footfall, with some stocking up on extra drinks and snacks for passers-by.

Wolverhampton market trader butcher Dud Malik, chairman of the indoor market traders' association, said: "I've got about 10 per cent more stock because we're expecting to see more people from surrounding areas coming into the city centre.

"This is just the sort of thing we need and we're hoping for a good day and a big boost. A lot of people will want to see the torch."

The West Midlands Chamber of Commerce spokesman John Lamb said it was a welcome boost.

"If it brings increased footfall into the towns and cities then hopefully in turn, that will cause the tills to start jingling."

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By Catherine Dalton