University of Bristol seeks Olympic Torch bearer for 2012 Bristol leg

The race is on to find inspirational members of staff to represent the University of Bristol when the Olympic Torch Relay travels through the city. Sponsors Samsung have guaranteed the University a place in the once-in-a-lifetime experience, which passes through the city on 22 and 23 May next year.

With the personal stories of each of the 8,000 torchbearers being broadcast around across the world, the University is looking for a truly incredible member of staff to carry the flame on behalf of everyone at the institution. Simon Hinks, Director of Sport, Exercise and Health, made a plea to colleagues and students to nominate someone special. 

 He said: "We're excited to see who gets nominated. It could be a colleague who's helped you through a really hard time, or someone who's inspired you to do something you never thought possible. Maybe it's a member of staff who has made a real difference within the University or local community. All suggestions will get put before a judging panel and the overall champion will then get their chance to shine when the Torch Relay comes through Bristol."

Representing peace, unity and friendship, the flame will be carried by 8,000 inspirational torchbearers during the Olympic Torch Relay which covers the country in 70 days. Each torchbearer will carry the flame for around 300 metres when it arrives in Bristol en route from Taunton to Cheltenham.

To make a nomination, please download a form from the Department of Sport, Exercise and Health website and return it by 30 September.