Watton woman looks forward to proud moment with Olympic Torch

A dedicated Guide leader who will be running through Lowestoft with the Olympic Torch has said it will be the proudest moment of her life.

Gill Smith, 55, an office co-ordinator, from Vicarage Walk, Watton, was nominated by her husband, Alan, 63, who has family links with the Suffolk town.

The mother and grandmother, who grew up in a the Suffolk village of Horham, near Diss, has always enjoyed being active and was selected by Samsung to be a torchbearer in Lowestoft tomorrow.

Mrs Smith, who has one daughter, a step son and step daughter and three grandchildren, said: 'I didn't for one minute think I would be picked. I'm very nervous but very excited because it is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I just feel so privileged and honoured to be selected. I know there are a lot more people who give more to their community than me.'

She has volunteered with the 1st Saham Toney Guides since 2009 and has recently been made assistant leader.

Mrs Smith, who said she always loved PE lessons at school, has also been an East Anglian Air Ambulance volunteer since 2010.

She once represented Suffolk in cross country running when she was 11 years old and also enjoyed playing netball.