Spotlight set to shine on inspirational Nettlebed Torchbearers
Two individuals from Oxfordshire are among those set for a moment in the spotlight next month when they carry the Olympic Torch through Nettlebed.
Mo Merchant and Will Traves are the two Torchbearers who have been nominated to carry the Olympic Flame when it makes its way through the streets of Nettlebed on Tuesday 10 July.
The occasion will be a great honour for the pair who are among the 8,000 inspirational people will carry the Olympic Flame as it journeys across the UK. Nominated by someone they know, it will be their moment to shine, inspiring people from the local, national and international communities.
For more than 23 years WRAF veteran Mo Merchant, from Wantage, has inspired thousands of young people through her work as a volunteer instructor in the Air Cadets. From teaching to organising events and expeditions Mo always puts every effort into making sure Cadets get the most out of their experience.
Mo, who also drives a school coach during the day, said: “To be nominated to carry the Olympic Torch was fantastic and then to be selected to carry it was an incredible feeling. I am so proud to be representing all members of the Air Training Corps in Thames Valley Wing, my family and Wantage, my home town. I am so excited and looking forward to the moment”
12 year old Will Traves, from Banbury, spends much of his time caring for his sister who both has special needs. Shouldering more responsibility than most young people Will is now using his experience to help other people too by volunteering to work as a buddy at a local project that provides disabled young people with play and leisure opportunities.
Will, who is also a committed Sea Cadet, said: “I feel extremely proud and privileged to have the honour of carrying the Olympic flame, it feels amazing to be part of history”
Cllr Ann Ducker, Leader of South Oxfordshire District Council, who invited the Torch Relay to pass through the district, including Nettlebed, said: “Both Mo and Will really share that community spirit that communities in Oxfordshire, such as Nettlebed, pride themselves on. We would like to congratulate them on receiving the honour of carrying the Olympic Flame.”
Cllr Barbara Lewis, member of Nettlebed Parish Council, said: “Our Nettlebed community is excited to be part of the Olympic Torch Relay. It will be a most memorable occasion for everyone, especially the children. Those honoured as torchbearers will be an inspiration to others and we look forward to cheering Mo and Will as they carry their torches through our village.”