THE long-awaited Olympics handover celebration has been cancelled, after the body of a murdered 18-year-old was found close to Walthamstow Central bus station.

The teenager, who has yet to be formally identified, was found lying wounded by police in a grassy area near Selborne Road during a routine patrol at about 1.40am today.

He was later pronounced dead in hospital.

Two or three men were seen running away from the scene shortly after the body was found.

Two men, aged 17 and 20, have been arrested in connection with the incident and are now in custody.

Floral tributes to the murdered teenager, referred to as “CJ”, have already been left at the scene.

The celebration of the handing over of the Olympic torch, which was due to take place in the town square today has now been cancelled.

The Global Voices event was to feature music from acts including the London Gospel Community Choir.

The new big screen in the town square was going to be used to link up with other choirs across the country.