Shell's under starter's orders in Galashiels
Published 12 Jun 2012 09:30
0 Comments
SHELL Smith is proof that Olympic torch bearers come from all walks of life.
The 40-year-old, who lives in Tweedbank with husband George and their sons Connor and Reece, is the first to admit she is not the sort of person you would describe as sporty - more of a couch potato in fact.
But she is proud and thrilled to have been nominated to carry the flame when it arrives in Galashiels, shortly after 1pm on June 14.
It's been an exciting time all told for the Smith family - not only is Shell carrying the torch, Reece, 12, is this year's Tweedbank Lad.
"I found out last September that I had been nominated to carry the torch. To be honest, I had not given much thought to the Olympics before then. I am not really a sporty person," she said.
Her one regret is that her mum died just a month before news of her nomination came through. She was nominated for her efforts at the Galashiels Asda store, where she has worked since it opened.
The nomination states: "In this time she has made a huge contribution to the store both at work and also the social aspect. Despite suffering the loss of her mum, Shell has still managed to smile and put other people first.
"She has personally raised £1,420 for Asda charities this year - £1300 through having her head shaved in store and £120 by white water rafting."
Shell has been following the progress of the torch online as it has made its way round the country. "It's amazing - it's been absolutely brilliant so far and I am definitely looking forward to carrying the torch. I am not nervous at the moment. I think I will be more excited than nervous on the day."
There is likely to be a big crowd out cheering Shell on when she sets off from the top of Tweed Road heading down to Netherdale. The passage of the torch has drawn huge crowds wherever it has been - and Galashiels looks set to be no different.
Shell has already been told that children from 13 primary schools will be lining the route, with many more folk expected to come and view the spectacle.
And Shell says she plans to savour every yard of the way - by walking, not jogging.
This article appeared in Border Telegraph 12 Jun 12
Return to the main index, get more from this section or browse our News archives.
Border Telegraph Poll
Do you think community councillors should support plans to spend £5,500 on a new lamp post in Galashiels to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee? See this week's Border Telegraph for more details.
This Poll is now closed.
Yes (17.1%)
No (70.7%)
Only if it lights up the whole of Gala (12.2%)
