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Unruly crowds prompt concern at ability to keep spectators in check

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While the Olympic torch has been welcomed with overarching enthusiasm in the mainland cities through which it has passed, uncivilised behaviour displayed by some well-wishers has left authorities red-faced and worried.

In pictures released by the official China News Service, mounds of rubbish were left in the torch's wake in Guangzhou and Shenzhen after it passed on to Fujian province .

Grassy strips along pavements and flower beds at traffic roundabouts were trampled by oblivious revellers.

The chaotic crowds have also raised concerns about the authorities' ability to keep spectators in check, especially after months spent whipping up patriotic fervour in anticipation of what many now refer to as 'our' Olympics.

In Shenzhen, spectators scaled lampposts and trees along the crowded streets to secure a better view of the Olympic flame. Fifteen men were seen standing, squatting or hanging from the branches of one tree alone.

Police cordons and barricades were breached, throwing the torch relay into momentary chaos. At one point, security personnel were forced to snuff out the torch, driving away with the flame in a protective box in the hope of avoiding the crush.

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