AN MP has launched a Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/HandBenThe2012Torch) to campaign for the chairman of Burton Albion to carry the Olympic torch during the London 2012 flame relay.
Burton Tory Andrew Griffiths believes Brewers chairman Ben Robinson is uniquely qualified for the honour and has started the social network initiative to marshal support for his candidacy.
On the campaign’s web page, headlined ‘Hand Ben Robinson the 2012 torch’, the MP said: “Nobody has done more to promote sport in Burton than Ben Robinson, particularly among young people, and so we are campaigning for Ben to carry the 2012 Olympic torch.
“It’s exactly one year until the opening of the 2012 Olympics in London.
“I want to see Ben Robinson carrying the Olympic torch and being chased by Billy and Betty Brewer (Albion’s mascots).” Mr Griffiths’ initiative has won the support of his constituency caseworker, Mike Wood.
In a comment on the Facebook page he said: “The Olympic torch will be touring Britain in a 70-day relay next year.
“Ben Robinson has done so much for sport in Burton that he should be given the honour of carrying the torch for part of the journey.”
Although nominations for torchbearers through the London 2012 Organising Committee have officially closed, suggestions are still being accepted by the group’s ‘presenting partners’ — Coca Cola, Lloyds TSB and Samsung.
Nominations will be accepted by the three companies until September 5, 12 and 30 respectively.
Candidates will then face an anxious wait before learning if they have been chosen to take part in a relay event which will visit all corners of the UK from May 19 to July 27 next year.
The London 2012 website said: “Eight thousand inspirational people from around the UK will carry the Olympic flame as it journeys across the UK.
“Nominated by someone they know, it will be their moment to shine, inspiring millions of people watching in their community, in the UK and worldwide.”
Mr Robinson said he thought he had been nominated by Mr Griffiths because the MP had seen Albion’s work in the community first-hand.
“If it happens it would be a great honour,” said the chairman, who is now in his second spell in charge of the Brewers and whose tenure has seen the club rise to the Football League.
Further nomination information is available from the website www.cokezone.co.uk/olympicgames, www.lloydstsb.com/carrytheflame or www.samsung.com/london2012.