London 2012 Olympic Torch

[1] The shape of the torch makes it easily gripped, as does its textured surface, which is perforated with 8,000 holes.

[3] Functionally, they reduce the torch's overall weight and ensure that heat from its flame is dissipated without conducting down the handle.

The torch has two layers: an inner and an outer 'skin' with 3,600 and 4,400 holes respectively, held in place by a top and a bottom casting.

[7] They carried out stringent testing to ensure that the design could stay alight in wind, rain and snow; any weather that a British summer could produce.

The weight was achieved to ensure the torch was able to be easily carried by bearers of all ages; the youngest torchbearer in the relay was twelve, and the oldest 100 years.