Enfield Council is warning motorists to avoid the Olympic torch route to help avoid congestion.

The torch will arrive in Enfield on Wednesday, July 25, at approximately 3.14pm.

It will start its journey in Southgate before travelling through Winchmore Hill to the Florence Hayes adventure playground in Fore Street, Edmonton.

Council leader Doug Taylor said: “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for residents to see the Olympic torch pass by. It is a historic occasion and one I'm sure will be thoroughly enjoyed.

“We want everyone to cheer our torchbearers and enjoy the event but so that they can see the convoy we are advising motorists to avoid the area between 3pm and 5.30pm.

"We'd also appreciate it greatly if motorists would resist the temptation to park their vehicle along the torch route.”

According to the council, roads might be closed without warning if traffic or crowd conditions are deemed too heavy.

Thousands of people are expected to wait at Betstyle Circus in Waterfall Road in New Southgate to greet the flame and the first 25 torchbearers.