It's just a couple of
hours to go before the opening ceremony: it's balmy yet over-clouded outside
but there's a sense of occasion all 'round - even on Bethnal Green Road. It's
not just the Olympics. It's Ramadan too. People are breaking their fast and looking
forward to it.
But just beneath the
surface, there's an underlying tension in the air. We're poised for something
to happen, but we're not sure what. The last time it felt this otherworldly was
last summer. The almost constant drone of helicopters and the procession of
police cars - many unmarked - speeding past, sirens at full blast only add to the
feeling. But it makes sense of course. While the greatest city in the world
plays host to the greatest athletes in the world once more, there are going to be a few battles
ahead. That much we know.
