John Beardsworth

John is a captain in the Mercian regiment, currently deployed in Afghanistan. He commands an infantry platoon manning an isolated base in Helmand - for the soldiers there John's leadership represents the Army, this country and our national will to make a dramatic difference to Afghanistan and the Afghan people with whom he interacts daily. He'll be there for another four months on this tour of duty. His motivation is genuinely patriotic and enthusiasm to serve others. John is an accomplished athlete, running for Hertfordshire, swimming and water polo for English schools and triathlon including being territorial army triatlon champion a few years back. I'm his father and everyone among his family and friends is totally proud of John and his commitment. He is also a delight to be with and I know he puts himself out to keep the men in his platoon happy and motivated with quizzes, games and challenges - we get the shopping list to send him. Being a torch bearer would resonate with John's sporting background, he would be very aware of the honour and would be very proud to do it, his family and friends would make a huge party of the event that will leave its own impression on Norfolk later that day. Please note that John's contact details are currently mine - as he is currently deployed in Afghanistan.