A MOTHER hoping to be an official torch-bearer at the London 2012 Olympics was among thousands who flocked to see the official torch in Huddersfield yesterday.

Gaynor Bearder and her son Lucas, eight, got to hold the iconic golden torch at Huddersfield University.

And Gaynor, from Linthwaite, said it could be a “good omen” because she is in the running to be chosen as an official torch-bearer.

Gaynor’s best friend Sonya Bardell – who works at Colne Valley High School – nominated her to carry the torch because of her hard work fundraising for the children’s heart unit in Leeds, as well as campaigning to prevent its closure.

Gaynor’s youngest son Joel, four, was given lifesaving treatment at the unit in the Leeds General Infirmary.

Gaynor, 38, said: “I really hope that I get to be a torch bearer, it would be absolutely brilliant.

“Lucas was saying to me – ‘This is amazing mum, you know, I really want to be able to perform in the Olympics in 2020’. It’s just amazing how it can inspire young people like that.”

The university Students’ Union organised the event. Union president Matt Christie said it is just one of a handful of universities to host the torch – which arrived on a red London bus, pictured left – and thousands of people had their picture taken with it yesterday.

Each person who handled the precious golden torch – which won’t be lit until May 19 next year – had to wear white gloves.

The Olympic Torch Relay will start at Land’s End and the flame will be taken across the UK before reaching London on Saturday 21 July.