Glamis Castle will play host to the 2012 Olympic torch if castle administrator David Broadfoot and Tayside’s best known Olympian get their way.
Mr Broadfoot and athlete Liz McColgan want the Angus venue to be included in the route that will see the torch travelling the length and breadth of Britain ahead of the Olympics in London next year.
Seoul silver medallist McColgan has lent her voice to the Glamis bid, saying she would like Angus and the castle to be involved.
“They want the most interesting route for the torch that will show Scotland at its best and bring in visitors,” said Liz. “Glamis should be on the route.”
Mr Broadfoot sent an email request after the announcement 8000 bearers would carry the torch over a route yet to be finalised though some towns and cities that will be included have been named.
The castle administrator believes Glamis would provide a perfect setting and allow residents to get involved and showcase the area to a global TV audience.
He wants to see the flame carried down the majestic mile from the entrance gates to the front door of Angus’ premiere tourist attraction.
“The driveway is exactly a mile long perfect to do a leg of the relay here,” said Mr Broadfoot.
“In June next year the Olympic torch will be passing through Aberdeen and Dundee. They are passing our doorstep on the A90. Would that not be one of the great legs of the relay if they came down our drive, exactly a mile long towards the castle? Photogenically that’s a winner.”
The castle is one of the must-see attractions for international tourists and tour buses are already queuing up when the gates open at 10am now the summer season is under way.
However Mr Broadfoot thinks there is potential to attract far more people to share the glories of the east of Scotland and an Olympic torch visit would help promote the beauties of Angus to a worldwide audience.
“People go up the A9 to the Highlands or turn left to go to the west coast of Scotland,” added Mr Broadfoot.
He said bringing the torch to Glamis would also be fitting given that 2012 is not only the year of the London Olympics but the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.