Torch bearers visit club

YOUNG martial artists and their parents had an ‘amazing’ experience when two local Olympic torch bearers brought their precious keepsakes along for a visit.

Students and their families at Lynx Black Belt Leadership Academy at Retford had the opportunity to meet Alison Noble and Tony Eaton, and got their hands on the torches.

Alison, chair of the Bassetlaw Play Forum, dropped into the gym last Thursday, to give a talk on her leg of the Olympic torch relay through East Markham, where she had been cheered on by the martial arts students.

The youngsters had then given locals a demonstration of their skills.

On Saturday Tony, chair of Help for Heroes in the district, brought his torch and told the students about his journey through Conisbrough.

Co-owner of the martial arts academy Rachel Blinston said: “What an amazing experience happened this week, when we got the opportunity to meet and chat with two of the local Olympic Torch bearers.”

“Firstly Alison visited the Academy on Thursday evening, giving a fantastic and motivational speech.”

“Students and parents stood in amazement as she back flipped and cart wheeled off the academy stage area.”

“To top it off, Tony came on Saturday, with Bassetlaw Council sports development officer Tony Wright, and once again they gave inspirational speeches.”

The Academy has been heavily involved with the Bassetlaw Games campaign, which aims to increase sporting participation in the district and create a legacy from this year’s Olympics in London.

Rachel added: “It was a great opportunity for all the students and parents to see and torch an Olympic torch and photos were taken throughout the event.”

“The torch bearers and senior sport officer were presented gifts from the Academy.”