Day 13 of the Olympic Torch Relay began with well-known local figure and manager of Stoke-on-Trent football club Tony Pulis setting off on the first leg. The Torch travelled 107.95 miles to Bolton on Thursday aided by 135 torchbearers who proudly carried it along the route. Famous faces included comedian John Bishop and Olympic boxer Amir Khan, who was the last torchbearer of the day and tasked with the job of lighting the Olympic cauldron.
A number of local inspirational characters were selected to carry the Flame on Day 13 of the relay, which took in a numerous iconic locations along the route. Michael Dooling, who was chosen in honour of his involvement with Athletics for more than 50 years, carried the Torch through historical Tatton Park.
Oscar Schmidt, the Brazilian basketball player, was in charge of the Flame though the town of Warrington, while Andrew Thorp took it over in Bolton. Thorp set up homeless charity Street Soccer. Another torchbearer chosen for his fundraising efforts was Cameron Foster, who is passionate about raising money to help people rehabilitate through sport.
On Day 14, the Torch crossed the Mersey into Liverpool during its 93.82-mile journey from Bolton. On Friday 1 June, 157 torchbearers carried the Olympic Flame through 17 communities.
Sixteen-year-old Antony Evitts, a talented swimmer whose long-term goal is to represent Great Britain at the 2016 Olympic Games, was the first torchbearer of the day.
Another youngster, 15-year-old Jessica Wade, who was nominated for her dedication to animals in need, was one of three torchbearers to carry the Flame along Anthony Gormley’s Another Place in Crosby.
The Flame also visited the iconic Aintree Racecourse and Knowsley Safari Park before crossing the Mersey by boat for the Evening Ceremony in Liverpool.
Find out more about the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay Presenting Partners.
Find out more about the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay