Stone’s Chris Barlow, a legend in the town’s running community, has been revealed as the Stafford Borough Council’s choice to take part in the Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay.
Members of the public were asked to put forward names of worthy people for the chance to carry the baton when it comes to Stafford and Stone on Tuesday the 19th of July.
Local authorities hosting the event were allowed a ‘golden ticket’ to nominate one person from the community who would then be assured of a place in the baton relay.
This week it was revealed that the Cabinet at Stafford Borough Council nominated Chris Barlow, who has been a member of the Stone Master Marathoners running club since 1991, for his efforts in raising thousands of pounds for charity through his athletic feats.
And the Stone septuagenarian was gobsmacked when he was told he had been the council pick. He said
“That’s unbelievable, I did not realise that the borough council had picked me as their nomination – out of everyone they could have gone for.”
Chris has been active in scouting for nearly 70 years from cub to District Commissioner. He gave up a successful telecommunications career to become a fundraiser for Acorns Children’s Hospice and has used his passion for running to benefit charities for more than 40 years.
The 75-year-old has completed almost 100 marathons and founded the town’s popular 10K.
Chris said some of his fellow runners have told him they would be coming out to support on the day and he added:
“It is an honour to be carrying the baton and I would like to think it will be an opportunity to promote the running club who do great work in the community.”
Councillor Carolyn Trowbridge, Cabinet Member for Leisure, said:
“There were several names put forward to us and were all deserving of the opportunity of being part of this wonderful event.
“But we were only allowed to choose one – and when you hear of the years of dedication Chris has put in to helping others, and what he has achieved, then you will agree he is one of our real unsung heroes and a worthy choice. I hope he creates some wonderful memories from this day and know that everyone is cheering him on.”
You can find out more about what’s planned for the baton when it comes to Stone in our recent article –
Stone to make a big splash in Commonwealth Games Baton relay
You can see more local batonbearers at www.staffordbc.gov.uk/meet-our-batonbearers
