The Olympic torch enjoyed an adrenaline pumping ride over Newcastle on Friday evening, speeding down a 400-metre zipline in the hands of adventurer Bear Grylls.

The chief Scout and former SAS trooper was met with cheers from the thousands of spectators as he reached the ground, after a spectacular descent from the Tyne Bridge's 195-foot arch to the Quayside below.

The torch is being carried by some 8,000 people on a nationwide relay ahead of the Olympics opening ceremony in London on July 27.