A SPORT-loving teenager who has refused to let personal obstacles stop him from living his life will carry the torch through Malvern.
Matthew Ash is one of 8,000 inspirational people who have been chosen to carry the Olympic flame on its 70-day relay around the UK.
The 18-year-old, who lives in Pickersleigh Road, suffers from Asperger’s syndrome and it is his love of sport that has got him through most trials and tribulations.
“I am so happy that I will be carrying the Olympic torch and I am really looking forward to it,” he said “My dad put me forward and it was really unexpected but I am really glad he did because I am really looking forward to it.
“I love sport and I really like horse racing, Formula 1, snooker, football and athletics so I can’t wait to be involved in the Olympics.
“I want to have a career in sport in the future and this is a great start.”
His father, Paul, said he will be very proud on the day.
“Matthew has done fantastically well during his young life and this is just another great thing for him to be a part of.”
Meanwhile, dedicated Malvern man Wayne Whittaker will carry the torch through Worcester on Thursday.
The 39-year-old was nominated for his services to the town’s community, where he runs 7th Malvern Cub Group with his partner Kate Southall and is under 10s coach at Newtown Football Club.
The father-of-two is also the main carer for Ms Southall, who is registered disabled, and looked after deaf and blind adults for nearly 20 years at Sense’s Tanglewood care home in Malvern, where he began work as a support worker, later progressing to manager.
Mr Whittaker said he was delighted to have the honour of carrying the torch and youngsters from the clubs where he volunteers are expected to be there to cheer him on.
He said: “It’s amazing. It was one of my parents from cubs and school who nominated me.
I just thought that was lovely.
“It all came as a bit of a shock.
As much as [the clubs] are personally fulfilling and put a smile on your face, I don’t it for the plaudits.
“I’m sure I will be really nervous on the day like anyone would be. The kids are excited.
It’s lovely for Worcester as a city to be recognised and it’s good for this area. Hopefully everyone will get behind it.”
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