Before Mr Johnson’s history lesson the schoolchildren had enacted a demonstration of the torch relay handovers in their playground.

Around 7,000 people, many of whom are members of the public who have shown community spirit, courage and sporting determination, have been named as torchbearers.

The youngest unsung hero is 12 and each torchbearer will wear a white-and-gold uniform which been designed by adidas.

An average of 115 torchbearers a day will carry the flame during the nationwide relay, from May 19 to July 27, to the opening ceremony in Stratford, east London.