Wylie also carries the torch

SHETLAND trampolining and gymnastics coach Mark Wylie has been selected to carry the Olympic torch, when it arrives to the northern isles on 10 June.

Mr Wylie said he was honoured to be given “this amazing opportunity”, and added that details had still to be finalised whether he was to carry the torch in Kirkwall or in Lerwick.

The www.london2012.com website has published his details as one of the Orkney torchbearers but that might change over the next few days.

Mr Wylie has been selected in recognition for almost 30 years of involvement in developing trampolining, gymnastics and pre-school activities at Lerwick’s Clickimin Leisure Centre.

The 45 year old also led a team of local volunteers to Zambia and Romania in recent years to work with orphans.

He said: “The Olympic Torch will be great for Shetland and great for Britain. I certainly don’t mind where I’m asked to carry it, Kirkwall or Lerwick.”

He added that this was going to be the beginning of a “truly amazing Olympic summer” for him, as he will be travelling to the games to watch his friend Beth Tweddle competing in the gymnastics final at the O2 Arena.

He will also meet Nadia Comaneci from Romania, one of the world’s most famous Olympians, winner of five gold medals.