Olympic Torchbearer

I was lucky enough to get to see the Hopetoun House leg of the olympic torch relay today.

West Lothian Council website details that this is John Beaton (19) who was diagnosed with glue ear as a baby and had to have gromits fitted. At 14 John organised 100 scouts to carry flags at Murrayfield for the Calcutta Cup.

John was diagnosed with Aspergers at 17 but he never uses his difficulties as an excuse that he can't do things. After years of struggling he now referees rugby and is a Scout Leader. John was also a member of the Scottish Youth Parliament. He never thought he would pass his exams but he proved everyone wrong by sitting Higher Business Management. Since being confirmed as a Torch Bearer, John has also won an apprenticeship with the City of Edinburgh Council - Economic Development Service.

A really emotional afternoon with lots of West Lothian schoolchildren enjoying sporting events and joining in with the celebrations.