A surgeon, a hospital volunteer and two fundraisers have been selected to carry the Olympic flame through the streets of Oxfordshire in recognition of their tireless support for the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust.
Oxford cardiologist Dr Tim Betts has saved countless lives in the operating theatre, while 31-year-old volunteer Simon Cruden has been performing magic tricks and balloon modelling at the Oxford Children’s hospital for 14 years.
Between them 21-year-old Joe Robinson, from Thame, and Margaret Brown, 71, from Abingdon, have raised tens of thousands of pounds for the Oxford Cancer Centre and the John Radcliffe Hospital.
Mr Robinson, who recovered from horrific injuries caused by a car crash thanks to the treatment he received at the JR, said: “I’m so excited.
“I’m buzzing, it’s what I’m looking forward to this summer. Most important I want to thank the JR. This is me running on behalf of them.”
Hospital bosses hope the Olympic torch now inspires others to become Trust members as it applies for Foundation Trust status. It hopes to recruit 7,000 members of the public.
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