University figures to shine a torch on Olympic inspiration

Three people from The University of Nottingham have been chosen to carry the Olympic Torch as it passes through the city on its way to London 2012. Research fellow Danielle Carpenter from the School of Biology was chosen alongside students Taylor Amerman and Chris Hill to join the 8,000 inspirational people who will carry the torch on its 70 day journey across Britain. The torch itself, decorated with 8,000 small holes, weighing 800 grams and measuring 800mm high, will reach Nottingham on 28 June as it travels within 10 miles of 95 per cent of the UK population. The precession will be met by a free evening celebration on the Old Market Square, before being paraded through the city and the University's Jubilee campus on Friday 29 June. After being chosen to take part, Corporate Social Responsibility masters student Taylor Amerman said: "As an international student, I wanted to be able to engage with the local community and make a difference. I have been fortunate enough to have a lot of blessings in my life and I want to give back by inspiring others. "I was very surprised, excited, honoured and humbled to be selected.