Eight inspirational residents will be carrying the Olympic flame tomorrow as they take part in Merton’s second torch relay.

Community heroes, including two former Olympians, an Olympic hopeful, an 86-year old marathon runner and a former child of courage, will be taking part in the Wimbledon Guardian’s unofficial torch relay tomorrow morning.

About 30 torchbearers carried the torch through Merton in the 66th day of the official Olympic torch relay on Monday, July 23 – but not one was from Merton. 

Both Haydon the Womble and former Olympic champion Ray Stevens were selected to be torchbearers but were told to run outside of the borough, while many other deserving residents were nominated, but not selected.

Come and support our torchbearers at an Olympic celebration and community fair at the Hub in Mitcham on July 28 from 11am.

The free event will also feature live music, football, cricket, rugby and basketball coaching for children and teenagers, street dancing, Zumba, an introduction to bowling for seniors as well as traditional games for children, a barbecue, licensed bar and giant screens to watch the Olympics.