UNSUNG heroes from Stourbridge played their part in sporting history when they carried the Olympic torch as it swept into the region ahead of the London 2012 Games.

Chris Platts from Amblecote was one of a number of Black Country community champions chosen to carry the flame as it passed through Worcestershire last Thursday (May 24).

The teenager, a student at King Edward VI College in Stourbridge, was picked for the prestigious role in hrecognition of his commitment to rugby coaching at his old school (Thorns Community College) and DK Rugby Club in Wall Heath where he has been mentoring the under eights.

He described the honour as something he’ll “cherish for a great number of years”, adding: “It was a very special day.”

Mary Stevens Hospice volunteer Jo Carthew also carried the torch through her hometown of Kidderminster.

The 41-year-old mum, who runs her own holistic therapy business, was selected to carry the torch in recognition of her support for the Stourbridge hospice which she has raised funds for and which she visits regularly offering free treatments to patients.

She said of the experience of a lifetime: “It was absolutely amazing - 100 times better than I could have expected.

“It felt like the whole of Kidderminster turned out for the occasion.”

Nicki Yates, from Lye, also carried the torch through Droitwich Spa on Thursday (May 24).

The 40-year-old community worker was nominated for the role of torchbearer in honour of her work with young people and the elderly.

She said afterwards: “It was a wonderful day. There were absolutely thousands of people lining the streets to cheer us all on. It was just an honour being there. I felt very humbled and very emotional; it really was great.”

Jackie Webb and Alex Peart from Stourbridge also carried the torch on May 24.

Jackie was nominated to carry the flame through Bewdley in honour of her life-changing commitment to better health and fitness.

While county trampolinist and badminton player Alex was picked to carry the flame through Clee Hill for his commitment to encouraging youngsters at Haybridge High School in Hagley to reach their potential in sport.

DK Running Club coach John Glover, aged 64, from Netherton, will carry the torch through Gnosall, Staffordshire, when it is next in the region on Wednesday May 30.