Dean Parsons, aka AFC Wimbledon’s mascot Haydon the Womble, carried the Olympic torch on the Sutton leg of the relay route.
An Olympic torchbearer set off on a tour of Merton’s primary schools to talk about his London 2012 experience yesterday.
Dean Parsons, aka AFC Wimbledon’s mascot Haydon the Womble, carried the Olympic torch on the Sutton leg of the relay route back in July.
He was also a Games Maker during the Olympics.
Mr Parsons was nominated for his charity work as Haydon, previously having supported the Children’s Trust in Tadworth, Surrey and the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation.
He said: “I thoroughly enjoyed being a torchbearer and games-maker. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity and an experience I’d like to share with the community. I’m delighted to be able to take the Olympic torch to our local schools – they appreciate it more than anyone.”
His first stop was at Gorringe Park Primary School. A number of children had the chance to hold the torch for photo opportunities.
Sandie Andrews, Deputy Head at Gorringe Park, said: “The children were really excited, as soon as he walked into the school assembly everyone cheered.
“He was really fun and inspiring. It was a good morning.”
Councillor Martin Whelton, Merton Council Cabinet Member for Education, hopes the Olympics will inspire children to get involved in sports and community activities.
He added: “After the euphoria and celebration of the summer Olympics, it was fantastic for our younger generation to see the torch and for them to have a chance to speak with Dean.”
The tour continued today and will resume on Monday 1st October. He will visit nine schools on Monday including Morden Primary School, Dundonald Primary School and Merton Abbey Primary School.
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