StreetGames five carry Olympic Torch with The Wanted

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For five young StreetGames Future Flames, their experience of carrying the Olympic Torch in Birmingham on 30th June was even more memorable then they had imagined, as they found themselves with an unexpected brush with celebrity.

Torchbearers Emma Farrell, Hannah Jukes, Paige Cockayne, Sammy Jo Rowson and Thomas Preece, all who carried the Olympic torch through Newtown, found themselves joined by boyband The Wanted for their leg of the relay. The chart-toppers were in town to headline a spectacular night of live music that evening, in Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham, to mark the route of the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay. 

The Wanted said: “What an incredible day! Carrying the Olympic Flame this morning and meeting the Torchbearers has been such a brilliant experience and we had so much fun bringing the Olympic Torch celebrations to Birmingham tonight with Coca-Cola. It’s an honour to help celebrate the amazing achievements of all the inspirational Future Flames and see the Midlands experience the magic of London 2012. Bring on the Olympic Torch Relay finale in Hyde Park next month.” 

The Future Flames were given the once in a lifetime opportunity of running with the Olympic Flame to recognise and reward the positive contribution they make to their communities and those around them. 

Their remarkable stories are as follows:

Emma, 17, from Tamworth – As well as working evening and weekends, Emma still finds time to pass on her dance skills to fellow college students and volunteers at her local community centre, teaching a two hour dance and cheerleading class for children needing support. She also takes a 12 mile round trip each week volunteering to teach youngsters before taking part in her own class.

Hannah, 17 from Cannock – After experiencing problems at school, Hannah found focus through dance and performing arts where she found her ‘missing link’. Hannah’s boundless energy, her strive for perfection and her determination makes her an inspiration to everyone who meets her.

Paige, 17 from Walsall – Paige is a vital part of the StreetGames team, acting as a young ambassador for her leadership academy.  At 15, Paige recognised the need for more sessions and set up a network of volunteers and coaches to deliver the Street Cheer programme.  Paige is extremely hard-working and determined and is highly respected by her peers at the project

Sammy Jo, 16 from Walsall – Sammy Jo is a year 11 student at Shelfield Community Academy, attending a street dance and cheerleading class every week.  She attends each class with a fantastic attitude and dedication and is an inspiration to the younger students.

Thomas, 18 from Walsall – Tom has been volunteering at the StreetGames project for four years and regardless of being one of the few males on the street dance project he never shies away from getting involved.  He is an inspirational role model to the younger people on the project and gives encouragement and support to all.

View photos of the five carrying the Torch with The Wanted on the StreetGames Facebook page »