Dream comes true for teenage torchbearer Natalie

Jun 9 2012 by kbarrSUN, Paisley Daily Express

A DREAM came true for sporty teenager Natalie Still yesterday as she went on the run with the Olympic torch.

Natalie, from Johnstone, was one of four people who were handed the honour of being torchbearers as the iconic flame was carried through the streets of Lochwinnoch.

And the 18-year-old student said it was a moment she will never forget.

Natalie told the Paisley Daily Express: “Carrying the torch was an incredible experience – a real once-in-a-lifetime event.

“It was great that so many people took time out to see the torch and hopefully, like me, they’ll have memories which will last forever.”

Former Johnstone High School pupil Natalie, who is now studying PE Teaching at Edinburgh University, was nominated for the honour by Ewan Jamieson, who is an Active Schools Co-ordinator for Renfrewshire Council.

By the time she was 16, she was leading groups of 20 children in sports classes at primary and secondary schools.

And her love of sport has grown even stronger since then ... which made yesterday’s torch trip all the more fun.

Natalie said: “I’m so thankful to everyone who came along today and I will treasure my involvement with the torch relay forever.”