Swindon man with Down Syndrome delighted after 'run for the queen' in Commonwealth baton relay
Sam Russell-Pierce was chosen as a baton-bearer after raising more than £4,000 for charities
Last updated 6th Jul 2022
A Swindon man has shared his delight, after being part of the Queen's Baton Relay ahead of the Commonwealth Games.
Sam Russell-Pierce, who has Down Syndrome, carried the baton in Devizes earlier this week. It was travelling towards Birmingham, where the Games are being hosted.
The 30-year-old was chosen for the honour, following his efforts for his West Swindon community during the pandemic.
He showed his support by dressing-up as different key workers each week - including medics, firefighters and posties - during the Clap for Carers in 2020.
This year, Sam has also pledged to complete 21 personal challenges, to fundraise for two local charities.
He's so far completed 15 of the tasks, including jet skiing, surfing and flying lessons - raising more than £4,000.
'An honour for him to be chosen'
Lesley, Sam's Mum, has told Greatest Hits Radio she's thrilled that people like Sam were picked to be baton-bearers.
"I think it's lovely that just normal people, not trained athletes, not superior athletes, just normal run-of-the-mill people, who have done lovely things for other people (have been selected).
"I'm very very proud of Sam, very proud," she said.
The Queen's 16th Baton Relay has so far travelled for more than 250 days, touring six continents across every corner of the Commonwealth.
The tradition aims to celebrate, connect and excite communities in the build-up to each Games.
"Sam doesn't understand the hugeness of it, at all. He just knows he's going to run fast for the Queen! But we (Sam's family) all understand the hugeness of this.
"It's an honour for him to be chosen, so it's an honour as a parent for him to be chosen," Lesley added.
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Kathryn Marygold, who has Cerebral Palsy, also carried the baton in Devizes.
Kathryn, along with her Mum Carla, have told our reporter Matt Hutchinson why she was selected for the event:
The Commonwealth Games get underway on 28th July.