Actress: Lin Russell performed in the Olympic opening ceremony as one of the Victorian workers

Actors who re-enacted the industrial revolution at the Olympic curtain-raiser paid tribute to their “inspirational” director Danny Boyle after taking part in the greatest show on earth.

Inspirational: Daryl Kane, centre, said Danny Boyle had given inspirational speeches before the curtain raiser

Daryl Kane, 47, and Lin Russell, 56, of the Barking Music and Drama group, hailed Danny Boyle as “amazing” and “approachable” adding the opening ceremony had been “brilliant”.

Daryl, of Bentry Road, Dagenham, said: “Danny Boyle was at every single rehearsal in Dagenham and at the stadium.

“Nothing was too difficult for him. He was very inspirational and made inspirational speeches about performing and how to be in the moment.

“It was absolutely amazing how well it was choreographed and organised.

Olympic: Daryl and Lin took part in the industrial revolution curtain-raiser

“It is one of the best things I’ve ever done.”

The actors were met by another spectacle as they saw Olympic teams walk to the stadium as they headed to Westfield shopping centre to watch the fireworks.

Lin, of Movers Lane, Barking, said: “It was a big night to remember. It is definitely the greatest show on earth.

“It was very British. Beijing was very Chinese. The quirky sense of humour of Danny Boyle came out. He was amazing.

“It was just an amazing experience. I still can’t believe I was part of it.”