Teesside University students past and present to join Olympic celebrations

Teesside University students, graduates and a record-breaking lecturer will be among the official torchbearers when the Olympic torch passes through the region.

And the University is joining in the celebrations with a host of activities when the torch arrives in Middlesbrough on Sunday 17 June.

The torch will arrive in Middlesbrough on day 30 of its 70 day journey around Great Britain, where picnic facilities will be made available in King Edward’s Square alongside entertainment for all the family. As well as a hot food concession and ice cream van, visitors can enjoy the Teesside Pipe Band, power chair footballers, a children’s bouncy castle and face painting, all from 5pm. The torch relay has so far seen inspiring people from all walks of life take on the prestige of becoming a torchbearer for the London 2012 Games, with two Teesside University students, three Teesside University graduates and a record-breaking lecturer ready to make the most of their moment to shine. Part time sports lecturer at Teesside University and Guinness world record holder Sharon Gayter, from Guisborough, will carry the torch through Redcar on Monday 18 June.

Sharon broke the world record for distance ran on a treadmill over seven days in December 2011 in the Olympia building on Teesside campus. She has also recently clocked a new world record time for the famous Head to Head route in Ireland. Andy Woodward, a current MSc Strength and Conditioning student in the School of Social Sciences & Law at Teesside University, will carry the torch through Darlington on Sunday 17 June. Ryan Metcalfe, of Guisborough, is currently studying BSc (Hons) Nursing Studies (Learning Disabilities) in the School of Health & Social Care at Teesside is also one of the torchbearers.

He said: 'It’s a huge honour to be given the chance to carry the torch, a once in a lifetime opportunity. I’m a local lad and I’m really proud to be representing the region.'

Second year student Ryan will carry the torch in nearby Brotton on Monday 18 June.

Martin Deacy, 55, who graduated from Teesside University with a BSc (Hons) Public Health and Wellbeing in 2010, is also carrying the torch through Brotton. Shane Hassell, from Billingham, has a BSc (Hons) Sports and Exercise (Coaching and Science) and MSc Strength and Conditioning, graduating from Teesside University in 2009 and 2010 respectively. He will carry the torch in nearby Whitby on Monday 18 June. Jo Chubb, 39, from Middlesbrough completed a BSc (Hons) Promoting Practice Effectiveness (Generic) from the University in 2010, and will carry the torch in Middlesbrough on Sunday 17 June.

Last year we were awarded the Inspire Mark, which recognises organisations that deliver projects and events genuinely inspired by the 2012 Games.

Professor Graham Henderson CBE DL said: 'The University is playing a key role in hosting sporting activity throughout the summer as our contribution to celebrating the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympic Games and we are looking forward to welcoming the torch on its journey through the Tees Valley.'

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