Olympic Union Flag raising - RAF out of step [Archive]

Corporal Clott

28th Jul 2012, 00:36

There were some cracking moments in there:

1. Paul McCartney
2. Rowan Atkinson
3. Bond and Her Majesty
4. Kenneth Branagh as I K Brunel
5. The torch cauldron

But then there was the following that was completely pants:

1. That gopping "Starsky and Hutch" helicopter :yuk:
2. The rubbish folk band at the start :yuk:
3. Too much Dizzie Rascal (or however you spell it) - one song would have cracked it.
4. Now I like the Arctic Monkeys, but are they really the best of British we can offer? What about The Who, Madness, Take That, Coldplay, Tom Jones, etc...?
5. The pointless "pimp my ride" boat driven by that bereft Beckham - what about a hovercraft which is 100% British?

We also could have done some other British success stories, like the invention of TV, Radar, penicillin, world discovery, law and order, jet engine, steam engine/train, postage stamp, pencil, semaphore, pocket calculator, mp3 player, transformer, carbon fibre, micro chip, iron bridge, pram, lawn mower, fire extinguisher, tin can, rubber band, corkscrew, flushing loo, stainless steel, smallpox vaccine, asperin, CT scanner, viagra, tanks, Davy lamp, Motion picture camera, Calculus, slide rule, periodic table and atomic theory, association football, rugby football, cricket, tennis, boxing, table tennis, hockey, netball, polo, supersonic car, hovercraft, golf, fridge, Scouts and colour photographs to name a few.

So, yes, I did enjoy a large proportion but it could have been sooooo much better. :ok:

CPL Clott

Arfur Dent

28th Jul 2012, 00:49

Quite extaordinary that, after what was probably the most amazing opening ceremony ever seen, some one picks on a bit of poor marching (3 seconds on film).
90 minutes that captivated everyone in my village - we organised a big screen- how can you be so bloody pathetic.
Danny Boyle did our country proud. Briiliant!!:ok:

baffman

28th Jul 2012, 00:50

We really enjoyed it here. I saw someone on another site criticising the British history and culture bit for being loaded with multiculturalism, but I didnt think that at all, quite the reverse in fact.

Refreshing. I have no doubt there will be plenty people here who disagree.

Lima Juliet

28th Jul 2012, 01:01

Call me "Mr Thicky", but I didn't get the connection of Stephen Lawrence's mum and the Olympic Flag? Also, are we really comparing her to the efforts of someone like Ban Ki Moon?!!

Oh, OK, I am Mr Thicky, then! :ugh:

rata2e

28th Jul 2012, 01:04

Served with the guy who was tocking out in Iraq in 2008.. We were two of 7 RAF engineer and and supply squadron Sgts that became 6 with the death of Baz Barwood.. So he had a bad day under a bit of pressure... We have all made mistakes on parades. Could you do any better? I always found Growbags tended to make more...http://images.ibsrv.net/ibsrv/res/src:www.pprune.org/get/images/smilies/evil.gif

So the bloke is totally legit. Actually pleased he dropped a bollock then, if it raises this fact. Presume all the others have done something exceptional too. Wouldn't care if they all minced up doing the actions to YMCA if they've all done the job that many here wouldn't and therefore deserve our respect. As implied, walking smartly and being brave aren't mutually exclusive, nor inclusive.

NutLoose

28th Jul 2012, 01:40

I thought it was very good and came across as a well thought out programme, even I wondered how the heck they were going to move on past the green field site at the start and it worked flawlessly, noticed on the count down 2 six balloons didn't burst, just like the navy to get that one in.... ;)

Was he ticktocking or simply negotiating a bit of badly laid out slope?

ozbiggles

28th Jul 2012, 01:45

And you guys wonder why we call some of you names?
I think some of the attitude comes from your miserable press.
ENJOY the moment and live it up. A couple of guys out of step and a few 'interesting things' in the show but overall good and hopefully just the beginning of the better things humanity can do.
Christ, we had a chick on a big yellow thong towed around, we just laughed, appreciated the fact she tries hard and got on with it.
For the armed forces, keep up the good work and keep it safe.

500N

28th Jul 2012, 02:56

OK, credit where credit is due. Some very good parts.

The Queen with James Bond Spoof was very well done.

The Cauldron lighting, the raising of the pipes and
the cauldron itself were excellent.

Well done London / GB / UK.

bosnich71

28th Jul 2012, 04:13

I didn't get the Beijing one either and after all it's just a load of tosh so stop moaning.

5aday

28th Jul 2012, 04:45

He was OK but the other five had problems.
I thought I would celebrate and made a couple of large caiperinhas. Consequent to that I fell asleep.

uffington sb

28th Jul 2012, 04:47

Give the guy a break.
I'd like to see how some of you would do marching on grass, uphill and all at different levels. It couldn't have been easy.

And a least Danny Boyle had members of the armed services carry out this important duty. I myself felt very proud that they had been honoured in this way.

Boy_From_Brazil

28th Jul 2012, 05:06

Disappointed that BBC World News didnt cover the opening ceremony and I had to watch it on the Abu Dhabi Sports channel! A great global opportunity missed.

The ceremony was incredible and made me proud to be British, but was the Frog commentary really necessary (especially as it came before the English commentary)?

BFB

yotty

28th Jul 2012, 05:21

Strange that the French commentary comes first. I think it's something to do with the french resurrection of the modern olympics, so this is their pound of flesh. I was at the Technical Rehearsal on wednesday night and the big screens showed the flag raising sequence with big letter superimposed " Not For Transmission". I wondered if the PC brigade were going to cut it out of last nights performance. I'm glad they didn't. BTW The Tor in real life is a lot steeper than it looked on the telly! :D

BEagle

28th Jul 2012, 05:52

Fortunately I only saw a few minutes of this pretentious, arty-farty nonsense in an advert break whilst watching the original movie version of M.A.S.H on More 4.

Hardly a 'ceremony', more some expensive, overblown and irrelevant pop concert.

Like everything else to do with this over-the-top sports day with its blatant commercialism, it was a ridiculous waste of money. 2 weeks of a few people running, jumping, splashing about and throwing things does not merit such a massively expensive festival of luvvy self-indulgence.

AT Mov

28th Jul 2012, 06:21

I am going to make most people forget all!

The RAF SNCO stood at the flag poles is a MOVER. Well done Gaz.

green granite

28th Jul 2012, 06:25

Didn't even bother to watch it, but this was mildly interesting this morning:

Video: Inside Red Arrows cockpit as it conducts London 2012 Olympics fly-past - Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/olympics/olympicsvideo/9434121/Inside-Red-Arrows-cockpit-as-it-conducts-London-2012-Olympics-fly-past.html)

llamaman

28th Jul 2012, 07:05

Funny how these kind of events divide the masses. It would be nice if people could lighten up a bit and embrace what, for some of us, will be a once in a lifetime event. If we played the 'what a waste of money' card every time something spectacular was attempted life would be very dull indeed. For what it's worth I thought it was a good attempt to stage something a bit different from the norm that represented the creativeness, injenuity, eccentricity, and humour of the Brits. Shame on those who, like our press, always find fault with everything we do. Try being positive for a change, you might find your day suddenly becomes a bit brighter ;)

Training Risky

28th Jul 2012, 07:05

You pathetic little masturbators.

I think that was a magnificent spectacle, about which we can all be proud.

Oooooh! Someone obviously likes overblown lefty PC pandering claptrap!

Working hard in Main Building's civil service LGBT forum are we?

GlobalTravellerAT

28th Jul 2012, 07:10

It's nice to see people embracing the true spirit of Britishness - moaning about the opening ceremony.
I for one thought it was a fantastic spectacle and as a nationwe should be proud of what we achieved. So what if one of our own made a mistake! Don't lambast him here but save it for a little in house dig in the tea bar when he gets back.

Good luck team GB

johnnypaveway

28th Jul 2012, 07:24

I thought that the Ceremony was absolutely captivating. Yes it jumped around and required thought to follow but it was stunning to watch.

As for the tick-tocking- could care less- and I'm P1Cer. All of th guys and girls selected by my team had demonstrated that they were the best of the RAF, and BTW drilling up slope, with one arm fixed on un even ground is bound to cause step change ( except for me of course as I'm awesome;))

Well done Blighty

Per Ardua ad Astra

grandfer

28th Jul 2012, 07:57

I thought this would be interesting having Frankie Boyle doing the opening ceremony , then I found out it was some bloke called Danny Boyle !:mad::mad::E

Trim Stab

28th Jul 2012, 07:59

Why did they choose an RAF bloke that couldn't keep in step?

He's probably knocking on the doors of all his mates about now collecting his winnings :ok:

grandfer

28th Jul 2012, 08:06

Are you sure he was the one out of step , I think he was the only one in step , all the rest were out .:ok:

Farfrompuken

28th Jul 2012, 08:10

I thought overall it was a fantastic spectacle.

There were a couple of moments where I wished the pace would pick up, but top marks to the team for the show.

The low point was McCartney; but I guess he was put there to empty the stadium. Was time to turn off when he started screeching!

Proud to be a Brit!

Cows getting bigger

28th Jul 2012, 08:14

You pathetic little masturbators

If Carlseberg wrote pprune quotes....... :) :)

Rather be Gardening

28th Jul 2012, 08:29

SirToppamHat

28th Jul 2012, 08:31

I think you will all find, if you watch it again, that for about 2 secs most of the flag party was out of step. Fortunately, the RAF chap realised and saved their embarrassment by adjusting.

Anyway, you're a bunch of miserable gits - I reckon what they achieved on a limited budget with so many volunteers was brilliant!

MATELO

28th Jul 2012, 08:49

I have just had a quick review of the flag ceremony and I can categorically state he was not tick-tocking.

He was just marching to a different drum beat then everybody else.

Load Toad

28th Jul 2012, 08:49

It's received very mostly great praise from various reports on news sites etc around the world.
It appears Danny Boyle clocked this one out of the ground.

Even cynical I am impressed by the message it has gotten through about what it is to be Great, British & Human.

Pontius Navigator

28th Jul 2012, 09:00

OK, it's an air thread, but didn't the RN provide an officer to hold the flag?

. . . and the dambusters theme ;-)

First thing I thought.

Shame we didn't have a Vulcan fly over with bomb doors open.

Trim Stab

28th Jul 2012, 09:05

Load Toad - agreed. I was watching on French TV and French commentators loved it, even if somewhat envious.

They were mystified though by the Pearly Queens and Eastenders - a bit too obscure for international audiences.

I don't see why Beckham had such a high-profile role, and for me McCartney was a bit of a low-point. Elton John would have been more upbeat.

Seb Coe's speech was all about himself, as expected...

I guess the original intention was to have the petals of the torch lit by the flag-bearers of each nation, but maybe that would have been too difficult to organise and keep secret?

Tankertrashnav

28th Jul 2012, 09:20

Well I thought it was brilliant. I've never voted Labour in my life but I failed to see the "leftie" message at all. I think all you have to do is include a few black people in anything and the usual suspects on here will come out with their "leftie, huggy-fluffy" rants.

I thought the Queen bit was funny, even though I'm no James Bond fan. Beckham and the boat was great, the cauldron was inspired. Felt really sorry for Mohammed Ali - I hope he was aware of what was going on around him even though he seemed unable to react at all.

Overall 95/100 from me :ok: If they'd scrubbed McCartney and the Arctic Monkeys it would have been 100 ;)

glad rag

28th Jul 2012, 09:51

Fair review Tankertrashnav, I honestly thought it was going to be far from good, but even to my cynical eyes it was a brilliant all round opening show.

Mind you, after this,

BBC News - Boris Johnson hails 'Olympomania' for torch at Hyde Park (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-19006480)

I also would want Boris for PM any day over the ineffective slimeball running the show just now.

langleybaston

28th Jul 2012, 10:13

and what percentage of the great unwashed would even recognise out of step?

I attended the Menin Gate ceremony about a month ago: a fine squad of ATC lads and lasses, gleaming, bursting with pride, absolutely straining to get things perfect [99%], wreath laying etc in teams of three.

Followed by an assorted sack of sh1t of scruffy, unkempt, probably unwashed, shifty, embarrassed, apologetic, slouching grotty turn off of the yoof of today.

It would have been much kinder to reverse the order of the ceremony.

Just appreciate what we have, while mourning for what we have lost.

Wensleydale

28th Jul 2012, 10:19

I've never voted Labour in my life but I failed to see the "leftie" message
at all.

So you missed the representation of the Jarrow March and the persistant use of the CND symbol then!

2Planks

28th Jul 2012, 10:20

Overall I thought it was excellent but where was Boris?
Not sure about Team GBs uniform - had they been at Stansted then it would just have been anotherstag on an Elvis Impersonators weekend!
Oh and BZ to the French for the double sided Union Flag/Tricoleur Flags.

sitigeltfel

28th Jul 2012, 10:53

I've never voted Labour in my life but I failed to see the "leftie" message
at all. So you missed the representation of the Jarrow March and the persistant use of the CND symbol then!

If the Grauniad thought it was "leftie" then it must be true.

Olympic opening ceremony a Labour party broadcast? Yup, that's about right | Sport | The Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/jul/28/zoe-williams-olympic-opening-ceremony)

Load Toad

28th Jul 2012, 11:17

Most opening ceremonies are part po-faced Nuremberg Rally part pretentious 6th Form drama class; lycra clad asexual actors running around with ribbons and at some point a few doves released. They are nearly always the same - only the amount of doves, fireworks and length of ribbons changes.

This wasn't - thank god.

dctyke

28th Jul 2012, 11:17

Really pathetic to read the put down of the guys marching skills....... If anyone criticised an individuals flying skills the thread would be pulled!

TheWizard

28th Jul 2012, 11:17

For once, just be proud of their achievements, not a small mistake in difficult circumstances :)

Olympics Flag Raising (http://www.raf.mod.uk/news/archive/olympics-flag-raising-27072012)

TomJoad

28th Jul 2012, 11:28

For once, just be proud of their achievements, not a small mistake in difficult circumstances

Spot on. To all the haters, reflect on this - the boys and girls of the flag party - they took part in it! You all sat on your arse and criticised. They will tell their grand children of how proud they were to represent their country and be there when the world was watching us. You will most likely still be criticising. I know what I would rather be doing. Well done to all involved - watched it with my young kids all the way through and they were enthralled. Britain is a bloody cool place to live would not change it for a second (I pitty the haters). Hats off to Mr Boyle for including the military in the event. Come on team GB.

Ace Brave

28th Jul 2012, 11:53

You know, for a while now I have thought that it must just be me getting really old and grumpy, but I have come to realise that it is actually that a very large number of people in here are just miserable, whining gits who like nothing more than to sit back with a beer and criticise everything they see or read when - in reality - they themselves are probably incapable of even organising a gathering in the Mess bar with their mates (ooh sorry, an assumption there that they actually have mates).

I don't think that I have ever seen in real life in the Services such a high percentage of bad-tempered, irritable, crabby, argumentative, difficult, tetchy, unreasonable, belligerent, grouchy, grumpy, disagreeable, ill-natured, stroppy, perverse and downright horrid people gathered in one place and all determined to make unfair, excessive, extreme, unwarranted, unnecessary, unprovoked, imbalanced, unjust and out of all proportion snide comments about each and everything that anybody else writes, or things that they see and think they could do better.

No wonder PPRuNe is going to the dogs if it is populated by the majority of you lot.

Chicken Leg

28th Jul 2012, 12:04

I thought it was brilliant.

And I refuse to let all those doom and gloom mongers ruin 'my' olympics. It's great for the UK and it'll stay great for the UK, no matter how hard some try to make it otherwise.

Those who don't like it or didn't want the Olympics in the UK, that is your right...... now f**k off and let the rest of us enjoy it.

brakedwell

28th Jul 2012, 12:55

Those who don't like it or didn't want the Olympics in the UK, that is your right...... now f**k off and let the rest of us enjoy it.

Can't find any Olympic events on this forum, I suggest it is you who should foxtrot oscar :E

November4

28th Jul 2012, 13:55

Thought it was mostly great and even better to Her Majesty's sense of humour.

Well done to all involved either in the main event or behind the scenes.

Hueymeister

28th Jul 2012, 15:09

Brilliant...Hobbits, scary baby, Voldemort and a BMW Mini!

...and nice to see Tal raise the Union Flag...nice one!

Wensleydale

28th Jul 2012, 15:24

You know, for a while now I have thought that it must
just be me getting really old and grumpy, but I have come to realise that it is
actually that a very large number of people in here are just miserable, whining
gits who like nothing more than to sit back with a beer and criticise everything
they see or read when - in reality - they themselves are probably incapable of
even organising a gathering in the Mess bar with their mates (ooh sorry, an
assumption there that they actually have mates).

I don't think that I have ever seen in real life in the Services
such a high percentage of bad-tempered, irritable, crabby, argumentative,
difficult, tetchy, unreasonable, belligerent, grouchy, grumpy, disagreeable,
ill-natured, stroppy, perverse and downright horrid people gathered in one place
and all determined to make unfair, excessive, extreme, unwarranted, unnecessary,
unprovoked, imbalanced, unjust and out of all proportion snide comments about
each and everything that anybody else writes, or things that they see and think
they could do better.

And the tone of your post is...?

TheWizard

28th Jul 2012, 15:41

...and nice to see Tal raise the Union Flag...nice one!

Technically, he didn't.

Liam Gallagher

28th Jul 2012, 15:52

I am overseas and with work and time zones I haven't seen the opening ceremony and besides it's not my thing, I like the sports.

However, I accept the opening ceremony is important and will, in no small part, define these Olympics. Given we live in the world of the short soundbite, I think it's important to have imbedded in and around your show, eye-catching events that News Editors can use for a 30-60 second feature in their programs. If I was doing the show, here's what I would do;

1. Start the show at an odd time. Don't go for 8 or 9pm, that's boring. I would start at 12 minutes past 8, which all smart people know to be 2012. That would be quirky and very British.

2. I would start with something spectacular, but clearly Olympic and British. How about a 9-ship fast-jet fly past with red, white and blue smoke, but jazz it up a bit by making them turn across the London Skyline with a golden sky behind. Not sure how you do it, but it would be spectacular.

3. Then as night falls, I would get the flame to go down the Thames for all the world to see; no restrictions on TV rights. I would jazz that up too. I would get a speedboat, with neon lights, and get some burd with long blonde hair to hold the flame and have someone like David Beckham drive the boat. As the boat goes past a recognizable London landmark, say Tower Bridge, i would get a whole bunch of fireworks to go off. That should look pretty good and Beijing or Rio can't do that.

4. Then to top it off, I would throw the Queen out of a helicopter.

Now, if you were to do all that, you would dominate the News Channels and have the World's attention.

What?

noprobs

28th Jul 2012, 16:19

Why did they choose an RAF bloke that couldn't keep in step?
Possibly because quality of marching was not the primary criterion for selection. Perhaps his Service record counted, along with the charity work, raising over £200K and gaining an MBE along the way, and being an international cross country runner came into the equation.

Courtney Mil

28th Jul 2012, 16:27

I thought Mendelev invented the periodic table and that was Russian.

A show of highs and lows. The Arrows were good.

Two's in

28th Jul 2012, 16:51

Looking from the other side of the pond it appeared to be the very definition of a spectacular. Having had some of my "Britishness" worn down somewhat over the years, it was quite moving to be reminded of some of the things we do very well as a nation. It's one thing to get 10,000 communists to dance in perfect step in Beijing, it's another thing completely to get that many Brits look like they are having quite so much fun in front of the whole world. Absolutely first class.

PS. Pointing out some chap's foot drill may not have been quite up to QCS standard is one of those British traits I really don't miss. I don't believe foot drill scoring was the aim of the exercise.

Duncan D'Sorderlee

28th Jul 2012, 17:30

I did enjoy the fact that there was a Nimrod in the opening ceremony - twice!

(just for the folk that winge that every thread becomes a Nimrod thread!)

Oh, and I bet that the majority of the billion watching never even noticed the marching 'foxes paw'!

Duncs:ok:

Laarbruch72

28th Jul 2012, 18:36

It was excellent. Quirky, British, a bit daft at times, at others stirring and moving. The sport has been great so far too.

And the thing I'm enjoying most is that BEagle is choking on his Waitrose gin at the thought of anyone actually enjoying any of this. What a shame.

Blacksheep

28th Jul 2012, 18:52

Liam and noprobs say it perfectly. Time to close this thread, go down the sports bar grab a beer and watch the world's best sportsmen and sports women compete. :D

BEagle

28th Jul 2012, 19:31

And the thing I'm enjoying most is that BEagle is choking on his Waitrose gin at the thought of anyone actually enjoying any of this. What a shame.

You might be wallowing in this festival of jockstrappery, but I am not. If you want to watch this overblown, commercialised sports day, then I hope you enjoy it.

Thank heavens for satellite TV and DVDs.......

xenolith

28th Jul 2012, 19:34

Possibly because quality of marching was not the primary criterion for selection. Perhaps his Service record counted, along with the charity work, raising over £200K and gaining an MBE along the way, and being an international cross country runner came into the equation.:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:ok:

TheWizard

28th Jul 2012, 20:02

Unfortunately you have the wrong bloke there.
However, the sentiment remains the same.

1.3VStall

28th Jul 2012, 20:06

Ace Brave,

I am 101% with you! Most of the inhabitants of this forum appear to be unable to cope with civilian life, hence their infatuation with this thread and their permanent, curmudgeonly reaction to anything and everything.

TurningFinals

28th Jul 2012, 20:26

So what, he was slightly out of step?

He was marching on grass, up hill and on the very edge of the path, not to mention the 6 billion people he knew he was being watched by. They were all very smartly turned out, there was no ticktocking and they represented the Armed Forces well.

Danny Boyle did us proud, let's hope Team GB do the same.

recce_FAC

28th Jul 2012, 20:53

Its inter forces banter, Every one else was marching up hill on an awkward incline yet they maintained being in step. Man up, the RAF bloke was pants , its banter get over it. It's what we do in the armed forces, any sniff of a dig at the other 2 service we jump on it. The fact is the Raf dude was out of step, so that gives us all lot's of ammo for banter.Of all the day's to be out of step ........

Evanelpus

28th Jul 2012, 21:02

Poor timing by the Beeb at the moment they mentioned the arrival of Team GB they cut to a shot of HMQ frowning cleaning her nails. For God's sake Lizzie, crack yer face!

The only other downside was Paul McCartney. Has this man never heard the saying "quit at the top"? He was flat, out of tune and his timing was way out. I suppose for a 99 year old we should make allowances but I believe he feels he's still in his pomp when his last two royal outings show he clearly isn't:ugh:

Anyone want to open a book as to when we see Sir Danny at the Palace?

EngAl

28th Jul 2012, 21:04

Got this in an email tonight from some American friends:

"We eagerly watched the opening ceremonies of the Olympics last night and were not disappointed == very impressive. You should be very proud of your country and the show they’ve put on for the world."

There's a few people on here who are out of step with the majority, but that's life I guess!

Shack37

28th Jul 2012, 21:31

Anyone want to open a book as to when we see Sir Danny at the Palace?

All together now to the tune of The Londonderry Air

Oh Danny Boyle, the palace doors are calling
For the New Year's or Birthday Honours List
When you arrive to get your well earned Knighthood
Please turn up sober and not completely ******

PS Thought he did a great job:D

racedo

28th Jul 2012, 22:20

Corporal Clott

28th Jul 2012, 23:37

In 1913 the English scientist, Henry Moseley (1887-1915), determined the atomic number of each of the elements and modified the 'Periodic Law' accordingly. Moseley realised that when atoms were arranged according to increasing atomic number, the few problems with the periodic table which had been developed by Dimitri Mendeleev disappeared. Because of Henry Moseley's work, the modern periodic table is based on the atomic numbers of the elements.

Courtney, debate?

mymatetcm

28th Jul 2012, 23:41

If you watched closely the drill movement (like at the rehersal) and noticed the way the hill inclined at an odd and uneven angle on a grass hill! he actually did 3 paces to the right to keep the flag square.

There are worse things a foot from the opening ceremony with a witch hunt on for the lads and girls who blagged it into the show after being on guard for 12 hours. This should not have occured because those higher up the food chain here bottled it, and the rumored empty seats that were numerous from eyewitness reports should have rightly gone those who put in a lot of hard graft on the security side to make the whole day work. Considering the gate shut at 2000hrs more effort should have been made to get a few in legally.

The second rumored witch hunt is for the naughty RAF who were seen drinking a pimms in public at the Heineken stand In uniform ! "This is against QRs you know" is all the Army can say.

diginagain

28th Jul 2012, 23:44

There's a few people on here who are out of step with the majority, but that's life I guess! That must rank a Gold medal, shirley?

sisemen

29th Jul 2012, 01:39

Finally got around to watching it on the recorder (24 hours later). Didn't see anything to whinge about with the flag escorts and I suspect that the general public watching live and on TV wouldn't have picked anything at all.

The opening sequences were good. The NHS sequence was bollocks. There were bits that even as a pom I couldn't understand.

Overall OK - ish.

I spoke to my daughters last night. The eldest one said, "They've had 7 years to plan and they've come up with that???"; the youngest said, "Brilliant".

Adam Nams

29th Jul 2012, 03:49

Well done to all those service personnel taking part.
Regardless of being in step or not, you all did your country proud.
:D

Andu

29th Jul 2012, 04:39

The NHS sequence was bollocks.As a non-Brit, my feelings exactly. Britain has much - and I mean much - to be very proud of, (little of which was highlighted in Doyle's [to me, sometimes a bit tedious] offering) but I wouldn't rate the NHS as anywhere near the top of that list. Certainly not high enough to occupy main stage for such a long time in an event such as the Olympics opening. As an auslander, it seemed a very, very political statement aimed squarely at the USA and to support Barak Obama in his current fight with the Republicans over that very issue.

For me, it was a bit like a Chinese meal - pleasant enough in places, but when it was over, it left me feeling a bit dissatisfied.

To get back to the subject of the topic - I couldn't care one whit if Sergeant Whoeverhewas was out of step or not. I'd just like to add my "well done/much appreciated" to every squaddie, sailor and airman who's been called in to save the day - and hope the bastards who dropped the ball on the security contract don't see a penny more than they should get for what they delivered as opposed to what they promised to deliver.

Surrey Towers

29th Jul 2012, 06:04

Some uneccessary negative stuff here when overall it was a masterpiece of organisation and presentation by Danny Boyle - with NOT a little help from the hundreds of brilliant volunteers. There were many mistakes but I doubt that anyone thought of them as being anything other than normal.

Beckham was, and always will be an irritation you can't scratch, his daft grin on the speedboat, and he wasn't driving it, should be wiped off - somehow! A powderpuff might do it. McCartney should listen to himself and someone I do not like, Rowan Atkinson, was a laugh a second - very funny.

The Reds were good to see, but the bore of the night was the e-n-d-l-e-s-s procession of the teams - well over an hour. I suppose it is a must - but very boring. I was fortunate enough to watch it in 3D which made the bad bits OK.

I think we can be proud to be British but Seb Coe's choice of his lootenants needed a kick. Daley Thompson should try to get over himself.

A great show but we missed out on day one medals, which is a shame.

The tide will turn - hopefully.

Cows getting bigger

29th Jul 2012, 07:49

I thought that, overall, it was very good. As for the choice of final torch-bearers - inspirational. :ok:

Shack37

29th Jul 2012, 09:55

As a non-Brit, my feelings exactly. Britain has much - and I mean much - to be very proud of, (little of which was highlighted in Doyle's [to me, sometimes a bit tedious] offering) but I wouldn't rate the NHS as anywhere near the top of that list. Certainly not high enough to occupy main stage for such a long time in an event such as the Olympics opening. As an auslander, it seemed a very, very political statement aimed squarely at the USA and to support Barak Obama in his current fight with the Republicans over that very issue.

This show had been in the planning and preparation for seven years. During that time Obama became POTUS. While preparing the ceremony somebody thought,
Ah... at the time of the opening ceremony Obama will be campaigning for a second term with health reform as a large part of it so let's include the NHS in our ceremony to get him some votes.
Doesn't sound too real to me.

As a non Brit you may not rate the idea of the NHS as important enough to be included but I suspect you're in a minority.

Andu

29th Jul 2012, 10:08

Shack37

29th Jul 2012, 10:37

Happy to be put in my colonial place.

However, to this, quite apossibly in a minority non-Brit, the NHS sequence was naff - and political as hell, worthy (if that's the right word) of the worst of NuLabour, a poor imitation of which we are now enduring out in the colonies.

No "putting in place" intended. The sequence was indeed naff but the organisation it was meant to represent and the idea behind it's foundation more than justified it's inclusion.

Let's not forget, for those who object to a bit of politics, that it was a political idea (ideology if you prefer) that brought it to life in the first place. There are not many people around now who remember how it was before 1947 to make comparisons. I certainly don't, even though I probably qualify as a "grumpy old man".

cornish-stormrider

29th Jul 2012, 11:52

Meh - it was curates egg.....
some awesome bits - and quite a lot of dross from the modern yoof and their inability to function without FaceArse or Twonkering or whatever they do,
and yes I get the irony of posting to decry it.

Sgt out of step - oh well, I'm sure he'll get over it (he'll be poor over the amount of beer to buy)

Beckham down the thames in a speed boat was good, the Bond/Queen was ace and the choice of music was average - too much modern junk - no mention of heavy metal and mimimal rock....

The torch thing was increadible - I just pray it was British engineering!

Q-RTF-X

29th Jul 2012, 12:47

Someone asking re opening ceremony

Were the hospital beds in Olympic stadium just being used to highlight the queue one has in getting into hospital

or

Was it an overflow from the local childrens hospital...

Commentator was a yank.

Well, there are certainly shortcomings in the NHS however, if a person turns up (or is delivered to) an emergency department they do not have to provide proof of financial capability (as in many US locations) before anybody will do anything. A couple of years back my eldest son battled with cancer; I was able to make it over to the UK and was also around when he finally lost the battle. I have seen for myself what was done for him; it was a lot. While there, I was taken ill myself and while I may not have immediately qualified for free medical services (due prolonged absence) I was treated under the basis of the "treat first and ask questions later". One of the negative elements of living in the Philippines is the availability of affordable medical attention with reasonable peace of mind as to level of care, considerations that make me view the NHS as something overall pretty worthwhile. Certainly, the statement as quoted coming from an american is strange when a huge number of their citizens are really up a creek without a paddle when it comes to medical care.

SRENNAPS

29th Jul 2012, 12:57

Well, this tread really does show who the half glass empty Muppets are. Only confirms what I already thought about many of the posters :ugh::ugh:

The London 2012 Olympic opening ceremony was brilliant in just about every respect. I was totally proud to be British. We take so much for granted in this country, but it was a true history lesson in how great we were in the past and why we still are the best today in this modern world.

Well done to absolutely everybody who was involved, especially members of the Armed Forces and NHS staff. Truly dedicated and professional people in all respects :D:D:D:D:D

Just a point; of the hundreds of facebook messages that I saw on Friday night, there was only one person making negative comments and that same person was a miserable, moaning git while serving in Germany many years ago. Sums it up really.

And finally:

Most of the inhabitants of this forum appear to be unable to cope with civilian life, hence their infatuation with this thread and their permanent, curmudgeonly reaction to anything and everything.

Eloquently said that man :ok::ok:

Wiley

29th Jul 2012, 13:18

A couple of years ago, I was overnighting in Birmingham when my FO sliced his eyeball quite seriously with a papercut - at 5.05 on a Friday afternoon. For reasons I won't go too deeply into here, the company emergency medical system went titzup - (new receptionist at the afterhours medical service the company used had never heard of us and wouldn't be told she had to do something).

Long (and it was long!) story short, I ended up putting him into a taxi and taking him to an NHS hospital emergency unit, where, initially, I got the runaround. However, after pointing the possibly very serious implications for a young airline pilot "taking two aspirin 4th hourly and coming back after 9.00 on Monday" - (I had to be quite insistent), I (and he) couldn't fault the treatment he eventually received.

When he was eventually treated and allowed to return to the hotel, (quite a few hours later), what really surprised me was the fact that the hospital staff weren't even remotely interested when I attempted to sort out paying for his treatment. We were both foreigners, our company (which could WELL afford to pay) was foreign, but there was no charge.

Personally, I didn't - and don't - think the British taxpayer should have had to pay for my FO's treatment, and a system that provides for foreigners so generously is at best, too generous, and at worst, far too open to widespread abuse - as ancedotal evidence would seem to suggest it is, and by far too many.

I too was surprised and little mystified that of all British achievements, Mr Boyle chose to dedicate (what was it? 10 minutes?) to the NHS. It seemed to me to be a very "in your face", Left-leaning political statement rather than an entertainment celebrating highlights of British history.

If, as it's been said, it was planned seven years ago, in the Blair/Brown years, that might confirm my suspicion that it was a very Left-leaning poltical statement.

I thought it was out of place for such an occasion, and I suspect 90% of the foreign audience were bemused (and mystified) by at it - to put it mildly.

Tankertrashnav

29th Jul 2012, 16:12

For reasons I won't go too deeply into here, the company emergency medical system went titzup -

However, after pointing the possibly very serious implications for a young airline pilot "taking two aspirin 4th hourly and coming back after 9.00 on Monday" - (I had to be quite insistent), I (and he) couldn't fault the treatment he eventually received.

So basically the private medical system failed and the much maligned NHS (eventually) came up trumps.

As I never tire of pointing out on here I have never voted Labour in my life, but as a long term cancer sufferer and husband of a (now retired) midwife I am an enthusiastic supporter of the NHS. I dont see the two positions as being incompatible, and can't understand why being in favour of our NHS makes me a leftie :confused:

barnstormer1968

29th Jul 2012, 16:41

recce fac

Possibly I'm getting older, so although I see the posts exactly as you do, there are many 'little PC princesses' in this forum, who are very poor at banter and become insulted way too easily.

I guess we must also remember the RAF is largely not a military organisation, and so accept they cannot do the very basic stuff that the other services can do without even thinking about. Maybe I'm just jelaous because I was a 'green eyed boy' and served my country well, rather than be able to say I raised money for charity (I wasn't a charity worker, or that I did a lot of sports (I did do that but was a serviceman first). I realise those comments were in defence of the wrong man, but sums up the possibly poor priorities of some of the light blue gang.

(If you are too young or too precious for banter then feel free to be insulted. To the grown ups and warriors, he will have a hard time coming and should expect it:E)

Shack37

29th Jul 2012, 16:57

If, as it's been said, it was planned seven years ago, in the Blair/Brown years, that might confirm my suspicion that it was a very Left-leaning poltical statement.

I thought it was out of place for such an occasion, and I suspect 90% of the foreign audience were bemused (and mystified) by at it - to put it mildly.

OK, you thought it was out of place and a Left leaning political statement.
This after explaining about the excellent treatment your FO (eventually)received and how the staff had no interest in charging you for it. BTW, did they ask you who you voted for before treating him?

For me the NHS is, and always has been, a fantastic institution which has helped millions of people who otherwise could not have afforded the medical treatment they needed. It was included in the ceremony, and deservedly so, as one ot the great developments in British history.

That some posters continue to insist it was included for purely politically motivated reasons and not on it's merits just confirms the small mindedness that abounds here sometimes.

Personally, I don't give a flying fc*k which party was responsible for the formation of the NHS, I'm just glad it's there.

If, as it's been said, it was planned seven years ago, in the Blair/Brown years, that might confirm my suspicion that it was a very Left-leaning poltical statement.

Of course, as posted earlier, it was all part of a great plan to get Obama elected for a second term. You couldn't make it up.

SRENNAPS

29th Jul 2012, 17:02

Tankertrashnav & Shack37

Thank you both and my thoughts entirely. It never ceases to amaze me how the brains of some people who post (utter rubbish) here actually work. Quite frightening really. How, in Gods name do you mange to turn the discussion upside down and slag off something that has actually gone the extra mile to help you out.

In the last few years I have had more than my fair share of experience with the NHS and I can say that without doubt they are equal in dedication, hard work, and professionalism as to members of the Armed Forces. It is a shame that a lot of people take both the Armed Forces and the NHS for granted and not appreciate how much good to society they actually provide; not just in terms of what work they do but their nature, culture and moral values that keep this nation together.

Shack37

29th Jul 2012, 17:08

Srennaps.

I think the problem is that some are so politically constipated they can't separate a great achievement from who created it.

TomJoad

29th Jul 2012, 17:14

I thought it was out of place for such an occasion, and I suspect 90% of the foreign audience were bemused (and mystified) by at it - to put it mildly.

Could not give a rat's arse if johnny foreigner was bemused and mystified. It was our ceremony and it was absabloodylutely right and proper that the NHS was praised. Well done to all involved.

Chicken Leg

29th Jul 2012, 17:35

I guess we must also remember the RAF is largely not a military organisation

:E:E:E:E

There'll be a few cringing at the honesty oozing from that post!!

racedo

29th Jul 2012, 18:09

It was our ceremony and it was absabloodylutely right and proper that the NHS was praised.

Nope it was an OLYMPIC ceremony where UK Govt have had to change numerous laws and effectively do as they are told by IOC in London during the games.

Opening ceremony was crass and full of political correctness.

Never vote Tory but Tory MP called it right.

SRENNAPS

29th Jul 2012, 18:51

racedo

For god’s sake, get a life and stop worrying about politics and political correctness.

Ask all of the athletes what they think. Ask them how proud they are to be a part of what you undermine. Ask them how hard they have worked to get there. They are what it is all about. Sadly, somebody of your mentality cannot see that.

And yes it was OUR ceremony and it was one that was totally accepted and thoroughly enjoyed by the majority of the world.

Just my perception but why is it that a significant number of people here who have a large number of posts over a relatively short time seem to be the most negative. Do they have a real life.

TheWizard

29th Jul 2012, 19:13

For some reason a minority of people are homing in on the 'NHS section' of the ceremony, which was just part of this fantastic event.
One thing that hasn't been mentioned is the way it highlighted the amazing work of one of the world's leading children's hospitals, Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) and it's pioneering work. A lot of the ceremony participants were off duty staff and some previous patients of GOSH also took part. That alone makes it worthwhile for me.
Oh and before anyone starts to ask what that has to do with an international audience read the following and perhaps learn something:
Home - International and Private Patients (http://www.gosh.com.kw/?utm_content=homepage)
God knows what criticism will come from the Closing Ceremony :rolleyes:

cynicalint

29th Jul 2012, 19:30

I thought the whole event portrayed the UK in a superbly beneficial light and the efforts by the military to raise the flag were superb; however, the minor observations that irked me were the chaviness of the UK's team sports wear, the shower caps worn by the US team but most of all, the apparent Nazi salute rendered repeatedly by the German minister welcoming the German team. I did replay to check I had not been mistaken and, even though it was left handed, it was unmistakeable.

PS someone really ought to tell Sir Paul that, though he commands respect and an ability to carry a crowd, his ability to hold a tune was not evident on Friday.

TomJoad

29th Jul 2012, 19:48

racedo

Nope it was an OLYMPIC ceremony where UK Govt have had to change numerous laws and effectively do as they are told by IOC in London during the games.

Opening ceremony was crass and full of political correctness.

Err Nope it was our ceremony - President of IOC even said so - so there:=

If it was "crass and full of political correctness" then it was so only in your mind. What's that say about you!

It was bold, different, risky and above all marvelously entertaining. Made me proud of this Great Britain we live in.

Willard Whyte

29th Jul 2012, 20:09

Really enjoyed the ceremony, if only from the comfort of my holiday home.

A vibrant, humourous take on British culture and history - without the bombastic nationalism we suffered in Peking.

Who gives a stuff if johnny foreigner didn't 'get' it. That's their problem, not ours.

Easy Street

29th Jul 2012, 20:13

Whilst the vast majority of Brits (myself included) are in favour of the NHS, I think many of us are slightly uneasy with the way that it has practically become a religion. Its priesthood [doctors] are not always on-message with its sacred texts; however, the high priestesses [nurses] speak with an authority that carries the entire congregation. It is very difficult to have a sensible debate about the NHS without offending some deeply and passionately-held beliefs - and that is not a helpful position to be in. Blasphemers - and even worse, apostates - are treated harshly by the court of public opinion, which stymies any attempts to make sometimes-necessary changes.

I'm no Christian. However our country used to define itself by its Christianity (and officially still does). The prominence given to the NHS in that ceremony simply reflects the fact that the vast majority of our country believes in it, despite any of its failings, unquestioningly. In that sense, it has supplanted Christianity as the religion of the people.

My view: it's a government service just like any other. No more or less important than education, homeland security, defence, foreign affairs, trade. To put it on a pedestal ahead of any of these is self-indulgent - we can only afford to indulge ourselves because of the work done in all these other areas.

TomJoad

29th Jul 2012, 20:51

Andu

29th Jul 2012, 22:30

Glad you locals all luurrrrved the NHS sequence, chaps, for it would seem that "johnny foreigner" clearly did not.

OPERATING THEATRE | Daily Telegraph Tim Blair Blog (http://blogs.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/timblair/index.php/dailytelegraph/comments/operating_theatre/)

Talk about a rip-off. It turns out that the celebration of Britain’s National Health Service, clearly the absolute highlight of the Olympics opening ceremony, was trimmed from 11 minutes to just nine for Saturday morning’s megashow.

For fans of state-funded healthcare-themed performance art – and I think I speak for millions of Australians here – this is shattering news. Perhaps we will never get a chance to see those missing two minutes.

Unless, of course, the NHS Dancers take their complete and uncut show on the road. It could be an all-dancing, all-singing, all-nursing spectacular, with massive queues for tickets providing a entertaining reminder of how long you’ll usually wait to be treated by the NHS itself.

Andu

29th Jul 2012, 22:32

...and yes, before someone points it out. One of the wingeing Aussies got his East and West Germanys mixed up.

Shack37

29th Jul 2012, 22:53

Just had a brief look at some of Tim Blair's other examples of literary genius. I feel a bit sorry for the bloke, he doesn't seem to have found much in life to write about that he either liked or enjoyed.

Union Jack

29th Jul 2012, 23:09

Alber Ratman

29th Jul 2012, 23:47

Yeah Barnstormer, thanks for your inject about the RAF being unable to carry out basic military routines that the other services can do in their sleep.. Like the last time I ever fired a rifle on a range.. Range happened to be out at the COB Barsah and it was a zero shoot for my IW.. Just been given the order to fire a five round zero group and I've just taken the safety off and aiming to fire my first round when a rapid burst of automatic fire happens from the firing point next to me.. The Range office (RAF Regiment Sgt) shouts "STOP" and then goes to the idiot pongo next to me, who couldn't be bothered to carry out the ready drills properly, giving him a right dressing down on weapons handling and ejecting him from the range!:E

BTW, I was out in Basrah with the tocking Sgt... The gym did see a lot of him.. But seeing his place of work was opposite it and his working hours were quite relaxed, unlike his boys.. However he was certainly has a better image that one of the Sgt Movers that worked with us out there.. He like to smoke... and smuggle a bit more than his duty free allowance home from the sandpit.. In fact a considerable amount more that cost him his pension, job and his liberty!:ooh:

TheWizard

30th Jul 2012, 07:05

So, all those that were so quick to shout 'tick-tocking', explain the guys on the right of the flag. Are they all 'tick-tocking' as well? (same arm and leg forward)

Or perhaps that's how they were supposed to do it :ugh:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/483209_10151000294292600_1984124650_n.jpg

lj101

30th Jul 2012, 07:13

Cynicalint

but most of all, the apparent Nazi salute rendered repeatedly by the German minister welcoming the German team. I did replay to check I had not been mistaken and, even though it was left handed, it was unmistakeable

The poor man ( now named as Mr. Troger) is reported as absolutely devastated at the interpretation of his wave.

In 1972, Mr Tröger offered to exchange himself for Israeli hostages while serving as mayor of the Olympic Village during the Munich Games.

Personally, I loved every bit of the opening. Let's hope for a safe Olympics for all.

mad_jock

30th Jul 2012, 07:37

watching it again

Min32 on Iplayer.

It was the difficult bit at the top where it all went a bit squiffy.

Up hill turning on grass.

I take my intial back, they more than likely didn't get beasted for days together before hand. Unfortunately some in the party may have had to do similar with a box on thier shoulders.

Could I have done better?

More than likely not, so apologies to the people involved. You looked cracking and I am sure that Auntie Betty was extremely happy with the flag party.

pegasus-9

30th Jul 2012, 08:10

I have heard a number of RAF marches, but never seen one, its normally a soft shoe shuffle, Should have used the Coldstreamers, but then they must be deployed elsewhere, pity our defence force is so small (to small to call a navy, army or airforce).

Laarbruch72

30th Jul 2012, 08:44

So, all those that were so quick to shout 'tick-tocking', explain the guys on
the right of the flag. Are they all 'tick-tocking' as well? (same arm and leg
forward)

How are they tick-tocking? Quite clearly the left legs of all four are moving forward as the right arms of all four are also travelling forward.

mad_jock

30th Jul 2012, 09:49

The two sides were out when walking in. And the bloke at the back didn't seem to know which side he was going with. Which is what made it look a bit strange to those that have done such things before.

If they had him stuck out in front then the pair at the front would have something to sync against. The flag would have stopped them seeing each other.

Bloody hard to do mind up uneven ground and a sharp corner. The two sides were out before they hit the grass so they had no chance.

The only time I have seen something similar was at a funeral and it was the RSM's choosen men, and as soon as they hit grass and hill they went outside arms straight down and they had someone out the front. They wern't slow marching at the request of the family.

If they had started the march with someone out front who called it and then peeled off before going up the hill it would have been fine I suspect. But no doudt the media lovies didn't want that.

Shack37

30th Jul 2012, 15:00

I guess we must also remember the RAF is largely not a military organisation, and so accept they cannot do the very basic stuff that the other services can do without even thinking about. Maybe I'm just jelaous because I was a 'green eyed boy' and served my country well, rather than be able to say I raised money for charity (I wasn't a charity worker, or that I did a lot of sports (I did do that but was a serviceman first). I realise those comments were in defence of the wrong man, but sums up the possibly poor priorities of some of the light blue gang.

(If you are too young or too precious for banter then feel free to be insulted. To the grown ups and warriors, he will have a hard time coming and should expect ithttp://images.ibsrv.net/ibsrv/res/src:www.pprune.org/get/images/smilies/evil.gif)

All hail Barnstormer the Grown-up Warrior, I am neither too young nor too precious for banter so I salute you for your modest and self effacing post. May the world eventually recognise you for what you believe yourself to be.

Tankertrashnav

30th Jul 2012, 15:14

I have heard a number of RAF marches, but never seen one, its normally a soft shoe shuffle,

Take it you've never seen the Queen's Colour Squadron of the RAF Regiment, Pegasus, who could march the pants off any bunch of pongoes any day (up to and including the guards).

(btw I think they like to be referred to as the Coldstream, not Coldstreamers ;))

TheWizard

30th Jul 2012, 15:37

How are they tick-tocking? Quite clearly the left legs of all four are moving forward as the right arms of all four are also travelling forward.

So, what's going on on the other side then?
(You really don't need to answer as this thread has wandered around enough already)

rowly6339

30th Jul 2012, 20:12

You can't have a go at the RAF about there marching as they never march anywhere,however he should have put in some practice one thinks.

1.3VStall

30th Jul 2012, 20:39

r6339,

but I can have a go at your grammar - "there marching" - ugh!

NutLoose

30th Jul 2012, 21:12

Guys you seriously do need to get out more.... :O

ratty1

30th Jul 2012, 21:58

watching it again

Hey Air police do you still have that quarter I lent you as you need to give it some other sad giffer on here. Gold medals being won all over the place and all you can do is watch a reply of some bloke tick tocking?

teeteringhead

31st Jul 2012, 11:44

I understand that the cost to the British public of this outstanding event (me both a Brit and a Londoner) worked out at 47p a head. BEags et al shold surely be allowed to claim this back somehow??

And I missed the Reds at the beginning cos Milady Teeters wanted to watch Corrie. :(

Still brilliant; but as some wag said: "They wanted to end the ceremony on a high note ........... shame Macca couldn't quite make it!"

Biggus

31st Jul 2012, 12:15

teetering,

I'm not quite sure how that is worked out.

Population of UK about 62 million. Approximately 50p each (easier than 47p) equates to about £31 million.....

Cost of games approx. £9 billion.....

So how does that work then?

Roland Pulfrew

31st Jul 2012, 12:27

Biggus

I think that the cost of the opening ceremony (the ceremony ONLY, not the whole cost of the games) has been quoted at £27M. Hope that helps.

Biggus

31st Jul 2012, 12:36

Roland,

Thanks..........

I read that Macca only charged £1 for his services, so little point in asking him for his fee back. I thought he was the low point of a generally excellent ceremony, but the warning signs were there for all to see from his performance at the Jubilee concert.....

teeteringhead

31st Jul 2012, 18:36

Apparently all the professionals charged £1. They wanted to do it for free, but seemingly you can't sign a contract unless money is involved, and £1 is the legal minimum.

500N

31st Jul 2012, 18:45

Re Paul's performance, we had a similar situation here in Australia last year
where Meat Loaf performed at the interval in a grand final.

Same problem, didn't have the voice of past and couldn't reach the notes
and so no one could here him.

.

Willard Whyte

31st Jul 2012, 22:41

Population of UK about 62 million. Approximately 50p each (easier than 47p) equates to about £31 million.....

Cost of games approx. £9 billion.....

So how does that work then? As stated, that's for the opening ceremony.

The sports 'day' itself is costing every man woman and child 40p per day for a year.

Since I'm not interested in sports can I have a free can of coke every day for the next 365 days?

Roland Pulfrew

1st Aug 2012, 07:37

I read that Macca only charged £1 for his services, so little point in asking him for his fee back.

I would have paid him £10 NOT to turn up!

Shack37

1st Aug 2012, 11:11

I read that Macca only charged £1 for his services, so little point in asking him for his fee back.

All in all a cheap knight out.

barnstormer1968

2nd Aug 2012, 10:32

Hi Shack

No, modesty probably isn't one of my biggest treats. But possibly just like fighter pilots there may be some jobs where modest folks tend to come off second best.

I have read your posts for a long while and you seem to have had your fair share of banter, hardships and fun during your service career too. What probably made me really bite are posters who spring forwards with excuses etc when a simple admission of messing up would have been more honest. I have made and make plenty of mistakes, but am the first to not only own up to them but share them with others for the sake of humour (at my expense).

I think that the line 'its hardly front line' was the worst IMHO. I meet up with lots of WW2 veterans as part of one of my jobs, and find the bravery and hardship some of these men faced truly humbling. I love their humour and the magical sparkle in their eyes when they get together to talk over past exploits (the sparkle that temporarily transforms an elderly gent into an 18 year old again, something I find a delight to see). Now some of these fine pensioners have not been in service for 65 years, but they can stay in time when marching on legion parades!......Of course maybe the fact that they fought a long hard and bitter world changing world war makes them a bit more front line than the RAF chap at the Olympics. Who knows.

I will add that the chap involved here is a great bloke (I have been told) and may have bitten the bullet (I know one of his work makes couldn't wait to see him to start the banterathon), but my gripe was the stream of excuses. Sorry if that annoyed you.

Shack37

2nd Aug 2012, 15:11

No, modesty probably isn't one of my biggest treats. But possibly just like fighter pilots there may be some jobs where modest folks tend to come off second best.

And are sorely missed by their friends whereas the arrogant ones just disappear.

What probably made me really bite are posters who spring forwards with excuses etc when a simple admission of messing up would have been more honest.

The guy in question was not one of them. Whether it was a mess-up or step adjustment for the terrain is still up for debate.

I will add that the chap involved here is a great bloke (I have been told) and may have bitten the bullet (I know one of his work makes couldn't wait to see him to start the banterathon).

I have no doubt that the banter will be long, imaginative, very funny and involve lots of liquid.

Thanks for your reply.

Tashengurt

12th Aug 2012, 22:29

Good to see they kept it up for the flag lo
wering too.

Lima Juliet

12th Aug 2012, 23:22

Who cares? The Who were bloody brilliant!!! :D:D:D:D:D

http://theseconddisc.files.wordpress.com/2010/02/the-who-logo.png

Plus Roger Daltrey was wearing a roundel, so he can be honourary RAF!

salad-dodger

12th Aug 2012, 23:32

Good to see they kept it up for the flag lo
wering too.

And the prize for predictable pedantry goes to tashengurt. Well done fella, hope you enjoyed the show!

S-D

Tashengurt

12th Aug 2012, 23:35

Only caught the end, what I saw was, like the whole thing, excellent. Come on though, it's just exaggerated walking, why can't anyone seem to manage it?

unclenelli

13th Aug 2012, 01:57

Well it confirms the rumours that the 30th Olympiad were NOT drug free!

Amy Winehouse & references to "Trainspotting" in the Opening Ceremony & George Michael and Russell Brand in the Closing Ceremony - to name but a few!

Do Glaxo-Smithkline have to keep their samples for xx years too?

But all-in-all a Bloody good effort by Danny Boyle to portray English-ness across the world. (I suspect an honour will be forth-coming (as well as an elevation to Lord Coe - if possible))
What a playlist.........(of merit):
Jerusalem
Danny Boy
Flower Of Scotland
Bread Of Heaven
Chelsea Pensioners
Grimethorpe Colliery Band
James Bond & the New Bond Girl (what a coup)
The Dambusters March
NHS & GOSH
KAOS
Mike Oldfield
Simon Rattle
The Beatles (as a group & solos)
The Rolling Stones
Led Zeppelin
Sex Pistols (albeit if they were censored at the Silver Jubilee)
The Prodigy
John Lennon (wish we could have seen more of the mask)
The Kinks
Madness
Queen
Bowie
the models (I thought their trailers would stand up on end)
The Pink Floyd (& Ed Sheeran)
Fat Boy Slim (I wished the Octopus had turned into more Beatles)
Jessie J (I wish I was that body stocking - Tinie Tampah's driver can't reverse in a straight line to save his life!!!)
The Bee Gees
ELO
& Human Cannon
Eric Idle
LPO
LSO
Take That
Spice Girls
The Who
&
Tim Berners-Lee
(although I would have like to have seen (remaining) Queen perform their traditional finale trio of WWRU/WATC&GSTQ for the Closing Ceremony)

Can anyone think of anything DB missed out??????
X Double-Decker buses (can't find cross-out font)
X Black London Taxis
X Chicken Tikka Masala (See Eric Idle)
X Union Jack
X Royalty
X Musical Exports
X Movie Exports
X Industrial Age
X 1914-1918 War
X 1939-1945 War
X Welfare State
X Iraq & Afghan Conflicts
X Human Cannon
more Monty Python
Laurel & Hardy
Chaplin
Fish & Chips (& other regional delicacies - but how would you have done it?)
2011 Riots (hardly worth advertising on a global stage)
Def Leppard (given the recent release of Rock Of Ages)
Ozzy Osbourne (given his global reality series)

I think it was just a shame that a few front-members of certain bands couldn't be there for the show
Dave Gilmour & Roger Waters
Liam Gallagher
Roger Daltrey (earlier)
Paul McCartney (earlier & later) & Ringo Starr
Stones
Led Zep
Bowie
Queen (at start/end of ceremony)
Barry Gibb (Closing Ceremony) - apologies if I'm too premature etc
Evelyn Glennie (closing)

But I DID wonder about the Anthrax Attack on Eric Idle(???) but he did get a 4-letter word into the ceremony. Thought he might have made more of the fat lady singing!

But ultimately (FAO Lord Coe):
Lots of cheer for the Volunteers, but None Whatsoever for the NON-VOLUNTEERS (i.e. Military) Most called at VERY short notice to fullfil YOUR (LOCOG) shortfalll Other than "The people who stood guard to keep us safe" So you lumped us in with the people who volunteered for G4S on minimum wage and failed to turn up!!!!
Thanks for that!!!!

I was not one - I was on PODL
but was almost called back to work pre-PODL because of Op Olympic

But my favourite moment:
Opening Ceremony
The Parade of nations Britain has conquered!