VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) - For tourists -- and even locals -- it's been a major attraction during the Games. However, the Olympic cauldron at Jack Poole Plaza has been cordoned off by a chain-link fence since it was lit by Wayne Gretzky during the Opening Ceremonies February 12th.
Reports say Olympic organizers will tear down the fence late Saturday morning in favour of a clear plexiglass barrier. Complaints poured in about how difficult it was to get close to the flame, which is considered a symbol of peace and freedom.
VANOC had also moved the fence closer to the cauldron, opening an eye-level gap to allow for unobstructed views and photographs, but people still weren't happy with that.
A viewing platform was also set up earlier this week and again that didn't do much to thin the crowd wanting to see the cauldron, as line-ups were hours long.