THE Olympic torch will touch down at RNAS Culdrose, near Helston, on May 18.

Preparations should be ready for it to start the British leg of the torch relay nearby at Land's End. It will be carried by 8,000 torchbearers for 8,000 miles to the start of the Games.

London 2012 said the arrival at RNAS Culdrose is to acknowledge the vital contribution that maritime and coastal search and rescue services make for the British isles.

Culdrose is home to most of the Navy's Merlin and Sea King helicopter squadrons.

Defence Secretary Philip Hammond said: 'I am delighted that Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose will be the first to welcome the Olympic Flame into the UK.'