I was fortunate to be one of 8000 individulas to be nominated to carry the torch. My moment to shine took place on 23rd May in the small village of Painswick. My day started with meeting all the other torch bearers on our leg and hearing their stories which were truly inspirational. We then travelled in a bus to our strating point in Stroud. It was clear from there how special this day was going to be as the crowds in Stroud an hour before the realy started was incredible. Each torch bearer was dropped off at that start point 5 mins before their allotted time. I was dropped off at just after 5pm ready for my 5.08 start time. Once I left the bus I got a true image of the magnitude of this honour. Despite many peole not knowing who I was I was engulfed in a sea of cameras all wanted to have a picture of me and the torch. We were not advised to let anyone hold the torch but I could not resist with such an outporing of excitement. Soon it was time and the incoming runner brought their torch to mine for the ‘ Olympic Kiss ‘. Then it was my time. This is just a blur and for some reason I began bounding, smiling and waving. It was only 300m but it seemed to take an age and I did not want it to end.
I will never forget the image of all those people supporting us and wanting to ctach a glimpse of the torch. I will never forget the sound of people clapping and cameras snapping and I will never forget how proud I felt carrying the flame which will soon burn brightly in the Olympic Stadium.
All I can do is encourage anyone to get involved in the Olympics in some way as it is an event that we may never host again.