While the route is missing Ashton, we still have some local interest!
Hazel Johnson, from Leacroft in Bryn, is carrying the flame sometime after 4pm. Her part of the relay is from the bottom of Library St, across the dual carriageway into Scholes and on as far as Warrington Lane.
The organisers chose her in recognition of her great (but hardly reported) achievement in bringing home a pair of gold medals, and a silver medal, (in the badminton singles and doubles) from the Special Olympics in Athens last summer. Despite all their financial problems, the Greek people generously hosted the events in the real Olympic settings entertaining competitors (with special needs) from all over the world.

Town: Ashton

I hadn't heard of Hazel's excellent achievement which as far as I know was not reported in the local press. The Special Olympics are an excellent organisation for providing opportunities for those with intellectual disabilities. Very well done Hazel-you deserve to carry the torch.

Town: AIM

Hazel says thank you. She considers carrying the torch to be a great honour - her family and friends are proud of her. Her part of the torch relay starts at 4.32pm in Rodney Street. Please come along and support her.

Town: Ashton-in-Makerfield

I will be giving Hazel a special cheer on Thursday - hope that the rain stops!!

Town: AIM