These are some of the torchbearers who will carry the Olympic flame through Preston on a historic day for the city.
Sixteen people are limbering up for their moment in the spotlight as the torch makes it way through Preston on Saturday, June 23, as part of its tour of the UK.
Janice Johnstone, 55, from Ashton, will be one of the first torchbearers on the route.
The receptionist is a member of Red Rose Runners, and was nominated by her friend Mary Dawes, for her fund-raising efforts for charities, including Rosemere Cancer Foundation and Cardiac Risk in the Young.
Janice, who works at Doclands Medical Centre, said: “I’m setting off at 7.57am from Blackpool Road, and running towards Tulketh Brow.
“It’s nice to be running in your home town, and better because I work in the area.
“I’m getting a bit nervous – I just hope the torch does not go out on me or I trip over!
“I still can’t believe it’s happening to me.”
Maureen Whitman, 65, from Fulwood, will carry the torch between Nursery Street and Skeffington Road.
Maureen, the oldest participant, has completed four London Marathons in her 50s and 60s, raising money for charity and giving a medal to each of her four grandchildren.
Maureen only got into running later in life and says she wants to show others they can enjoy keeping fit, whatever their age.
Former social worker Maureen said: “I was always a pudding at school, I was never athletic! When I was 58 I did my first London Marathon – I joined Preston Harriers ladies’ group and they motivated me and got me going.
“My daughter-in-law nominated me, and totally out of the blue I got an email about it.
“I’ve got my white suit now and I’m a bit nervous but I have a lovely family to support me.”
Andy Farringdon, 32, will be leading the way between Earl Street and Church Street in Preston city centre.
Andy lives in the Fishwick area, and works part-time as a teaching assistant at Sir Tom Finney Community High School, supporting youngsters with learning difficulties and disabilities.
The student teacher has volunteered with the school’s Scout group, and climbed Kilimanjaro in September 2009 to raise money for Christians Against Poverty.
He also volunteers at the Foxton Centre for homeless people. Andy was nominated by his wife Charlotte.
He said: “I feel really proud and honoured.
“After the Olympic run, I’m going to continue raising money for the Foxton Centre by asking for donations from people who want a photo with the torch.
“My wife has recently started volunteering for them, and I really love the work that they do.”
People from other parts of Lancashire will carry the torch on some parts of the Preston leg.
Lancaster University student Sue Fearnley, 26, was nominated for her role at a homeless shelter in Lancaster, where she worked five nights a week.
Sue, who is in her final year of a social work degree, said: “I was really shocked and amazed to be chosen.
“I am nervous, but I’m really looking forward to it as well.
“I hope people come out to watch.
“I’m looking forward to the whole of the Olympics.”
Simon Foster, 28, from Darwen, will run in memory of his niece Madison Allen, seven, who lost her battle with cancer over Christmas.
Student Thomas Green, 21, of Lancaster, who has cerebral palsy, represents people with disabilities at his college and other forums.
The other torchbearers hail from outside the county, including several international participants, but have lived, worked or studied in the area.
They are: Paula Hayes, 44, Sang Gu Jung, 30, Daniel Crowe, 20, Ja Yoo Choi, 21, Jason Eade, 43, Jung Hoon Choi, 47, Mohammed Soliman, 31, Pat Eaton, 49, and Seoung Jo Kwon, 35.
Comments