Glasgow 2014: Runner, 88, to carry Queen’s Baton

AN 88-YEAR-OLD who still runs half marathons will carry the Queen’s Baton as it reaches East Ayrshire ahead of the Commonwealth Games.

The Commonwealth Games Queens Baton Relay being carried through Edinburgh City Centre. Picture: TSPL

Community volunteer Peter Lee is one of hundreds of local heroes who have been nominated to help the baton make its way to Celtic Park for the opening ceremony on July 23.

The East Ayrshire leg will see the baton pass through towns and villages including Auchinleck and Galston and pay a visit to the children’s ward at Crosshouse Hospital.

Betty Bennett, 89, of Stewarton, was nominated to take part following decades of fundraising.

The grandmother, who was awarded an MBE two years ago, has helped raise £100,000 for Erskine Hospital.

Team Scotland bowler Claire Johnston will join the relay along with Scotland’s most-capped hockey player, Rhona Simpson.

East Ayrshire Provost Jim Todd said: “It will be East Ayrshire’s big day in the spotlight when the Queen’s Baton Relay makes its way from Dalmellington to Kilmarnock and our streets will be lined with well-wishers cheering on our baton bearers.

“Throughout the day there will be community events in our main towns celebrating the arrival of the baton and helping to build excitement for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games.”