Hundreds of spectators turned out to see the Queen’s Baton Relay carried through County Durham.
Birmingham 2022 is hosting the 16th official Queen’s Baton Relay – a journey which brings together and celebrates communities during the build-up to the Commonwealth Games.
Across England, the Queen’s Baton Relay is providing an opportunity for communities to experience the excitement building for the event.
Seventeen inspiring members of the community aged between 12 and 75 carried the Baton as it visited County Durham, journeying first through Durham City and then Seaham.
Among them was Jessica Eddie, from Durham. She was part of the history-making women’s eight boat which picked up a silver medal at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games – Team GB’s first ever medal in the event.
Jessica rowed the Baton along the River Wear as part of its journey through Durham City.
Jessica, who started her career at Durham Amateur Rowing Club, said: “It’s been an incredible event to be a part of. Rowing the Baton up the river was amazing and even better than I thought it would be.”
In Durham City, a special Queen’s Baton Relay edition of Paula Radcliffe’s Families on Track event took place at Durham Racecourse.
The event saw hundreds of schoolchildren from across County Durham getting the opportunity to experience the excitement of the Commonwealth Games. They were also able to meet North East runner and Commonwealth Games medallist Laura Weightman.
Families on Track is part of the annual Durham City Run Festival which is currently taking place.
This year’s Families on Track, in which teams of families complete a continuous 10k relay, will be held tomorrow, Saturday 16 July.
Craig Robinson was among the Batonbearers in Seaham. Craig was medically discharged from the Army following a serious accident and now helps other veterans with their physical and mental recovery.
Craig said: “This has been an unbelievable experience.
“To be recognised in this way and nominated to be a Batonbearer is very humbling. Thank you to everyone who came along to cheer us on.”
The Lord Lieutenant of County Durham, Sue Snowdon, said: “The Queen’s Baton Relay provides communities with the opportunity to experience the spirit of friendship for which the Commonwealth Games is renowned.
“The Baton contains a message from Her Majesty the Queen to the athletes and we are proud that County Durham has been part of its incredible journey.”
Cllr Beaty Bainbridge, Chair of Durham County Council, was on hand to meet Batonbearers taking part.
She said: “The Queen’s Baton Relay visit has been a fantastic occasion for County Durham.
“It’s been brilliant to see our amazing Batonbearers carrying the Baton through the county, being cheered on by spectators along the way. It was also fabulous to see the 300 schoolchildren at Durham Racecourse who encouraged the Batonbearers.
“Well done to all of our Batonbearers, you have done yourselves and the region proud.”