Angus baton bearers have been setting out their kit ahead of this weekend’s big day.
On Saturday, day 15 of the Queen’s Baton Relay, the county that will be the venue for the Commonwealth games shooting events is set to stage a celebration many hope will equal the carnival atmosphere created by arrival of the Olympic torch in 2012.
The list of Angus baton bearers ranges from sports people to those who have devoted their lives to community organisations, all of whom are set to be cheered loudly as the relay passes through.
One of the youngest on the list of those honoured with the task of carrying the item that has been round the Commonwealth is Montrose teenager Stewart Watson, a Young Ambassador at Montrose Academy who has excelled in his studies while representing the school in a number of sports.
He has represented Scotland at his specialist sport, the pole vault, but also manages to find time to coach rugby and athletics.
Ian Wren from Arbroath will also be in the spotlight in recognition of his tireless work for the Horseback UK and Help for Heroes.
Ian has raised more than £100,000 for the two charities he is close to, and his dedication is mirrored by that of another baton bearer, Marjorie Smith from Brechin, selected in light of her involvement in Guiding stretching over half a century.
Marjorie has held a number of important positions, including that of County Commissioner, and has also been a member of the Macmillan cancer support group’s Brechin committee for some 18 years 10 as chairman.
Up in Forfar, Donna Pass will be pulling on her training shoes to represent the town’s Road Runners after being nominated to carry the baton for her encouragement to other runners, particularly youngsters, and the thousands of pounds she and the others have raised for charity.
Montrose is staging a major baton celebration, and among the town bearers is Scott Constantine, a coach and volunteer with the local rugby club.
Scott is also a coastguard who volunteers with the Montrose Emergency Services Group and runs a Friday night project for local youth in an effort to divert them away from anti-social behaviour.
Montrose will also be represented by Rhona Alston, who has been the driving force behind the town’s tennis club for a number of years, watching it grow from around 120 members to more than 300.
A relentless funding drive by members has seen the clubhouse refurbished and the installation of six all-weather floodlit courts, with a thriving programme of involvement with local schools.
Chairwoman of the Angus Commonwealth Games steering group, Councillor Jeanette Gaul, said: “On its way to us the baton has passed through thousands of hands across the Commonwealth nations and territories.”
She continued: “Angus is part of this party too, with all of the Commonwealth Games shooting events taking place at our very own Barry Buddon near Carnoustie. Angus is honoured to be part of the baton relay and we are proud to be a venue for the 20th Commonwealth Games.”
See full coverage from The Courier online and in Monday’s paper.