Paternoster Square basked in the May sunshine on Tuesday for the arrival of the King’s Baton Relay.

The event marks a key ceremonial moment ahead of this summer’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Each of the participating nations have received a personalised relay baton, with Team England launching their relay in the City of London.

The showpiece event, in association with the Central London Alliance, saw Team England athletes and key officials on a 3×3 basketball court constructed as part of the London Sports Festival taking place across the capital this summer.

King’s Baton Relay arrives

John Steele, Chair of the Team England board, said: “The Team England leg of the King’s Baton Relay represents a hugely significant moment with only weeks to go until the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games begins.

“This collaboration epitomises everything the King’s Baton Relay and the Commonwealth Sport movement is about.

“The King’s Baton arriving in London represents a step change in the build-up to the Glasgow Games where our Team England athletes will give their all to make the nation proud.”

Added Central London Alliance founder Tony Matharu: “This is a truly special moment for London, bringing together tradition, sport and community in the heart of the City.

“The arrival of Team England’s leg of the King’s Baton is not only a ceremonial highlight, but a powerful reminder of how sport can unite people from all backgrounds, stimulate innovation and create shared experiences.”

Summer sport

This year’s Commonwealth Games will see a slimmed-down version of the traditional timetable following the decision by the original host – Victoria, Australia – to pull out.

Glasgow stepped in but reduced the programme to ensure the Games are economically viable, before the quadrennial tournament heads to India for what is expected to be a bulked up Games.

“Major events like this are showcasing the Square Mile as a world-class place to live and work in, and to visit, while also highlighting sport’s ability to bring people together,” City of London Corporation policy chairman, Chris Hayward, concluded.