The road to Athens begins in Chiswick

Team GB set off on Olympic quest from DIY store car park

The B&Q DIY chain have launched a five year partnership with Team GB by sending one of its trademark orange lorries on an eight day mission across Europe to kit out the British team's accommodation in Athens.

With valuable supplies including 54 fridges, three washing machines, 10 air-conditioning units as well as mirrors and lighting in the specially built artic, the British team accommodation will be more comfortable to relax in.

Olympic medallist Sharron Davies and Team GB Trampolinist Kirsten Lawton helped load the final few items onto the lorry before wishing it well on its journey.

With products having come in from stores and depots across the country, the lorry left the B&Q mini warehouse in Chiswick with exactly a month to go before the first Olympic event starts and after traveling 1,926 miles via France and Italy, will arrive in Athens eight days later.

July 16, 2004