Excitement mounts for our torchbearers

Richard Sharpe (49) of East Goscote, will be the first to carry the flame and said he is planning to savour every moment.

Richard, a dedicated coach with Frisby Fencers and Mencap award winner for his work with disabled students, will carry the torch from 7.37am in Leicester’s Belgrave Road for 400 metres.

He is the only local torchbearer who has been given a Leicester route.

He said: “I’m feeling a combination of nerves and excitement at the moment and am planning to do a fast walk/slow run so that I can really relish the moment.”

David Newton (61), a retired Pedigree Petfoods worker from Asfordby, will be the next local torchbearer to carry the flame from 12.13pm.

He will cover a distance of 440 metres from Park Avenue to Nottingham Road in Melton.

David, who was nominated for his service to St John’s Ambulance, said: “My uniform arrived on Tuesday and it fits me like a glove, I’ve even bought some new trainers to match.

“I’ve got lots of family and friends coming to cheer me on as well as about 30 singers from the Heart of England Barbershop Chorus, which I’m a member of, I’m really looking forward to it.”

David will pass the torch to John Southerington at about 12.17pm.

John (66) of Bridle Close, will carry it for 300 metres, from Nottingham Road into Nottingham Street, stopping at the Corn Cross.

John was nominated after raising more than £650,000 for charity.

He said: “I have been trying to imagine the magnitude of the crowd.

“It’s a real once-in-a-lifetime moment and I’m planning to wave and take my time because I’m sure it will go by so quickly.”

Andy Banks (25) of Harby, will carry the flame at 1.48pm for 300 metres, setting off from Dalby Road and finishing in Warwick Road.

Andy, a GB Down’s Syndrome swimmer, said: “I’m excited and will definitely run my route.”

Once he has finished Andy’s family will be holding a party for him to celebrate.

The torch will enter Melton via Asfordby Road at about 12.06pm, passing through Market Place at 12.21pm on its way to Long Field School, where it will stop for a break at 12.36pm.

It will leave the town an hour later, via Leicester Road, Dalby Road, Ankle Hill and Burton Road.