LIPHOOK Day Centre clients had a surprise visit by an Olympic torchbearer.

Lloyds TSB Bank manager James Hardwick carried the torch through Richmond, Surrey, on July 24. They were able to hold the torch and have pictures taken as part of the start of their very own Olympic week of indoor games, including bowls, fishing, badminton, quoits, egg and spoon races and games which could be played from arm or wheelchairs.

The highest scorers received gold, silver and bronze medals as well as a goodie bag.

James, 25, was delighted to bring his torch to the senior citizens of the parish, some of whom still remember the 1948 Olympics. He took the torch past Richmond station cheered on by his mum Marilyn, dad Chris, sister Phillipa and fiancé Angela, members of his family and friends.

He said: "When it was my turn it felt like the most surreal experience, quite overwhelming and emotional.

"I can honestly say it was one of the best days of my life – it was simply spectacular and wonderful to hear people shouting my name while I was carrying the torch."

He said after his visit to the day centre, in Midhurst Road, "I felt so privileged and was happy to give something back and for them to have their photos taken with my torch. It was a real party atmosphere."