In pictures: Torch at Great Wall

The second day of the torch's tour of Beijing began in fine style, with a ticker-tape greeting for astronaut - or taikonaut as they are known in China - Yang Liwei.

Organisers regard the Beijing leg as the most important section of the global torch relay, but the Great Wall was shrouded in mist as volunteers celebrated the flame's passage.

The authorities have taken drastic measures to combat the city's air-quality issues, but recent readings suggest pollution is still a major problem.

However, the gloomy weather did not seem to affect the volunteers, who turned out en masse to cheer the torch along.

And the pageantry also passed off smoothly. On Friday, the torch will be taken to the Olympic Stadium for the opening ceremony of the Games.