Cherry picked by Samaritans to carry torch

Buy photos » Cherry Allsop will be one of the Olympic Torchbearers when it passes through Earlswood. Photo by Marcus Mingins 1912016MMR

A BROMSGROVE woman is set to carry the torch during the Olympic relay, after been nominated for her service for the Samaritans.

Cherry Allsop, 49, has worked voluntarily for the charity for 11 years, providing emotional support to people in need over the telephone and by mail. She was put forward by her husband.

She will pick up the torch on July 1 in Earlswood near Coventry and complete a 300-metre leg.

Cherry, who lives on All Saints Road, said: “It feels like a dream come true to be chosen as a Torchbearer.

"It’s astonishing and a real honour.

"I am a keen runner and have completed two marathons, so I intend to sprint all the way.

"I haven't run for a few years, but I'm going to try an power through."

And she said she was 'really shocked' to be chosen.

"I just thought there was no way they were going to pick me," she added.

Chair of Samiritans. Stephen Hoddell said: “Congratulations to Cherry, this is a wonderful recognition of the years of voluntary work she has devoted to helping others.

"On behalf of the charity, I’d like to wish Cherry the best of luck and thank her for her commitment to Samaritans.”

The torch was lit last Thursday (May 10) in Olympia, Greece and arrived in the UK today (Friday) where it begins a 70-day round tour of the UK - from Lands End to the Olympic stadium in London.

Cherry will complete her 300-metre leg on July 1 in Earlswood on day 44 of the UK relay.

She will be one of 8,000 people in the UK to participate.

Regional news »