Torch relay was magical
11:50am Thursday 31st May 2012 in Letters
What a day. On Saturday I set off early in the morning, the destination, the small village of Rosudgeon just outside of Helston to watch my dad do his stint in the Olympic Torch relay.
From as early as half past seven the streets were lined with excited people ready to show their support. The atmosphere in the small village was electric. Everybody was happy and really proud to be Cornish or living in this fantastic county.
My dad, Chris Martin from Mabe – not from Coldplay - nominated by my sister for his charitable work and sporting achievements was so proud to be holding his torch.
He progressed his way up the street (much more slowly than usual I hasten to add) with a grin from ear to ear as the crowds cheered and applauded him.
As he got near to the end of the section, close family members began to well up, the pride and emotion of the occasion getting the better of them.
One great moment for me was the unity, friendship and camaraderie the torch bearers had, as they clapped my dad back on to the bus, all sharing the same fantastic experience, just minutes before and only meeting for the first time hours before that again.
After my dad was dropped back to Helston and presented with his torch he made his way back in to Falmouth. He wanted to enjoy celebrating with other people near to where he lives.
Again the support and enthusiasm was overwhelming. Dad posed for picture after picture after picture.
People were so grateful to be having a photograph taken with him and the torch of course!
It didn’t stop there, after returning home for a quick cup of tea he decided to take the torch to the local pub in Mabe so that some of the more elderly villagers who were unable to watch the relay were at least able to see the torch and have a chat with my father.
Eventually as the amazing day came to an end, not even babies sleep that well.
I’m sure I am able to say this for the rest of my family as well as many other people across Cornwall that this day will stay with me for the rest of my life.
Andrew Martin (son of torchbearer Chris Martin) Mabe
