Josh Gavin

I nominate my friend Josh as a torch bearer. Josh is a 6th Dan and World Masters Champion in Judo. He was a GB member for 10 years and now runs a Dojo in Clackmannanshire, Scotland where he teaches people the disciplines of Judo. Josh has promoted Judo to many in what is a fairly deprived area, having faith in his sport to teach valued life skills, developing kids to international standard and competition, broadening their horizons, raising their aspirations and shining a light on what can be achieved in life through hard work and dedication. Last year Josh collapsed while coaching in his Dojo. He was diagnosed with a life threatening brain tumour. Typically of Josh, he confronted this with characteristic optimism and good humour, providing yet another inspiring example to his friends and all those that know him. Josh is well on the way to recovery now and the opportunity to run with the torch would be a bright light at the end of a gloomy tunnel and an ideal chance for Josh and his family to be recognised and applauded by his local community, something I can't imagine him seeking for himself.