South West Trains passengers are to get the chance to view the torches being carried by two of the company’s employees during the official torch relay.

Frank Roberts and Daniel Opoku have been chosen as torchbearers for the UK’s epic Olympic Torch Relay this month. And after they have played their part in the relay, both employees will put their torch on display at their local stations in Mortlake, Richmond and Staines for passengers to see.
Staines and Windsor Station Manager Frank Roberts, who has worked for South West Trains for five years, will complete his relay route this Friday (13 July) in his home town of Swanage. After that, Frank’s torch will be showcased at Staines station ticket office on Thursday 19 July and Friday 20 July for passengers to see during ticket office opening hours. A former soldier and keen fund-raiser, Frank Roberts has raised £100,000 for charity over the years.
He said: “I am delighted that South West Trains has supported me by purchasing my golden torch for the event. Our customers are really excited about the torch relay and have given me a lot of support so it’s the least I can do to give them the chance to see the torch for themselves.”
On Sunday 22 July, Mortlake station clerical officer Daniel Opoku will undertake his section of the Olympic Torch Relay in his home district of Erith. Following his relay stint, Daniel will join Frank at Richmond station on Wednesday 25 July, where they will be on hand to discuss their experiences with commuters during the evening rush hour. Finally, on Thursday 26 July Daniel, who has worked for South West Trains for 17 years and knows many of his customers by name, will display and allow passengers to touch the torch at Mortlake station.
Daniel said: “By participating in the relay, I am delighted to be able to ignite people’s passions for the Games. The Olympics is for everyone so I feel it’s important to give our passengers a glimpse of the torch”.
During the Olympic Torch Relay torchbearers are carrying the flame through more than 1,000 cities, towns and villages. Carried by 8,000 inspirational torchbearers, the Olympic flame signifies peace, unity and friendship.

Designed by internationally acclaimed designers Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby, the golden torch is 800mm high, weighs 800g and is made from a lightweight aluminium alloy.