LOCAL WOMAN TO CARRY OLYMPIC FLAME FOR GB

ANGELA CHAPMAN from Sefton Park, Liverpool is celebrating after being chosen to carry the Olympic flame on 26 June as part of the 2004 Olympic Torch Relay.

Angela, 38, won this once in a lifetime opportunity after being nominated in a nationwide search by 'Coca-Cola', sponsor of this year's Olympic Torch Relay and the Olympic Games since 1928, to find extraordinary, ordinary people who are a real inspiration to others and who deserve to carry the Olympic flame for GB.

Tim Wilkinson, Communications Director for Coca-Cola Great Britain said:- "We were searching for individuals to be Torchbearers who particularly stood out of the crowd; people who had enriched the lives of others by demonstrating courage, dedication and inspiration. 

We are proud to say that we chose Angela for this opportunity because we felt that she really embodied the Olympic Spirit and was truly worthy of this fantastic honour."

The Relay, which will see the Olympic Torch touch British soil for the first time since 1948, will be a truly global event travelling across six continents, arriving in London from Paris, before making its way towards Athens for the Olympic Games Opening Ceremony on 13th August.

New Lord Mayor to focus on city's communities

A GRASS roots approach is to be taken on by Liverpool's new Lord Mayor as he focuses on the community to honour his promise that in his first year of office to recognize volunteer workers.

Councillor Frank Roderick takes the reins as Liverpool's first citizen tomorrow. His wife, Moira, will be Lady Mayoress. 

Frank said:- "It's a great honour to be Lord Mayor of my home city. However, I want to make sure that I am involved in community life as much as possible. So many people in this city give up their time freely to help others, not expecting anything in return and it would be wonderful to acknowledge all their good work."

Councillor Roderick was officially be installed as Liverpool's first citizen on June 30 at the Town Hall. He takes over from retiring Lord Mayor, Councillor Ron Gould.

He has a special interest in social services and the impact it has on people's lives old or young. Frank appreciates all the support they provide for people, something he has experienced himself following a serious illness in 1991.

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