A YOUNGSTER from Grays is one of four residents from the borough who have been chosen to carry the Olympic flame.

Lauren Beard, 16, is part of the relay team who will carry the torch through the town on Friday, July 6.

Lauren was chosen for the honour after being nominated through a Coca-Cola scheme, for her commitment to sport.

Speaking about why she was nominated, a spokesman from Coca-Cola said: “Lauren hopes to progress and play womens football at a high level, as well as attaining her coaching and refeering badges so that she can set up a team to encourage both boys and girls to get involved in football.

“Lauren’s dream is to play for England Ladies football team, or to reach the top level in another sport by winning an Olympic gold medal.”

Lauren will be joined in the relay by fellow Grays resident Helen Doyle, 48.

Jon Metcalf, 52, and Anne Harvey, 12, who both live in Grays, will take part in the Basildon torch relay.

Sandra Watts, 45, who does work with the South Essex Rape and Incest Crisis Centre in Thurrock, has been chosen to take part in the Southend torch relay.

Sandra turned to the South Essex Rape and Incest Crisis Centre for conselling eight years ago.

The Gazette revealed she had been nominated for the honour by bosses at the centre in November last year.

Sandra said: “I feel absolutely elated, you really could not ask for anything more.

“It is great the crisis centre has recognised what I have done and what I have gone through.

“I’m on cloud nine at the moment.”

There are six other torchbearers who will carry the flame through Grays with Laura and Helen.

They are John Wyndham, 66, and David Bland, 26, from Brentwood, Donghai Liu, 45, from Beijing, Evanna Morrissey, 42, from Nenagh, Kirk Cross, 44, Hornchurch, and Peter Mwaura, 11, from Basildon.