The first stage of the relay began at the city's sports stadium, traveled through the downtown area and ended at the Anti-seismic Monument, a poignant reminder of the terrible event of 32 years ago that claimed the lives of 240,000 people.

Running the opening leg was Song Zhiyong who before setting off chatted with schoolchildren from Sichuan who were orphaned by the May 12 quake and now live in Tangshan.

Song, 35, became a national hero after volunteering, with 12 of his fellow survivors of the 1976 tremor, to help rescue efforts first in snow-hit South China and then in Sichuan after the May quake.

Thanks to his efforts, 300 orphans were transferred from Sichuan to Tangshan two months ago to continue their education in schools there free of charge.

At the Anti-seismic Monument, Song joined hands with some of the orphans in a moment's silence to remember those who lost their lives.

"Tangshan people are proud of what we have achieved over the past three decades. We hope our friends in Sichuan have the same courage to rebuild their homes," he said.

"The torch is a symbol of hope. I believe each of us has a torch in our hearts. If you believe in it, it will light the way to a better future," he said.

The torch will continue today and Saturday in Tianjin.