Nikki’s in the running

DETERMINED . . . Nikki Green

A DETERMINED fundraiser could be heading to the London 2012 Olympics as part of a team of specially-selected volunteers to carry the iconic Olympic torch.

Nikki Green, of Higher Fullwood, Moorside, was inspired to set up her own running group — the Moorside Motivators — following the death of her beloved grandfather Herbert Dale in July, 2010.

Now the mum-of-two and grandmother-of-one has proved an inspiration to others and has been shortlisted for one of 8,000 torch-bearer roles during next year’s games.

Friends, family and work colleagues put pen to paper to nominate Nikki for the role for her fundraising and sporting efforts with the Motivators.

As a result, Nikki (44) has beaten off thousands of nominees to be shortlisted for the chance to carry one of the most recognisable sporting symbols in the world.

She said: “I was really shocked and surprised to find out I’d been shortlisted. To carry the torch would be a wonderful and fantastic opportunity, and would feel even better after setting up the Motivators.

“I’ve been told I have a one in 14 chance of being picked so I’d be over the moon if I was chosen.”

The torch with arrive from Greece on May 18, 2012 and the relay will start at Land’s End the following day.

The flame will burn across 8,000 miles in 70 days before heading to the Olympic Stadium for the start of the Games.

Over 28,000 people, including Nikki, have been told they are one step closer to making their dreams come true.

Her mother Lynne Rhodes, of Melladew Drive, Sholver, said: “It would be the icing on the cake if she was picked.

“My dad would have been so proud of her as we all are.

“The final decision will be taken on December 5 so we are keeping our fingers crossed until then.”

l Do you know of any other Olympic hopefuls on the short list? Contact the Evening Chronicle newedesk on 0161-633 2121.