London 2012: Stratford student ‘chuffed’ to carry torch to stadium
As a community football scout and coach, Stratford student Terry Bobie-Agyekum works hard to help others achieve their ambitions.
And now he has his reward - he will be one of the last Olympic Games torchbearers to carry the flame to the Olympic Stadium in his hometown on the night of the opening ceremony on July 27.
The 19-year-old, of Eastbourne Avenue, said his achievement only sunk in after the torch reached these shores on May 18.
He said: “I didn’t know how big it was until recently. I’m absolutely chuffed.
“They (Locog) told us when we would be picked a while ago so I went down there and took part in a photshoot and interview but it all happened so fast
“I just thank God for giving me the opportunity to take part in such a big event
“It feels like the Olympics have been coming forever but now they’re really close, it’s going be great for my area and all of London.”
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Terry, who plans to be a teacher when he graduates, is studying English at the University of Bolton.
He was nominated by Newham Council, the sports charity StreetGames and Rokeby School in Canning Town for the work he does in the community.
The FA level-two qualified coach is director of football and mentor at Rokeby School and a scout at Leyton Orient FC.
Terry added: “We’ve got four boys from Newham into Leyton Orient and my community coaching work takes place across the whole borough.
“I like working in the community and seeing them achieve.”
Terry also admitted he was unlikely to join some of the earlier torchbearers in selling his treasured possession as soon as the flame goes out.
“It’s a memory, and I will be one of the few people to have it,” he added.
