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First helps 5,000 Queen's Jubilee Baton Relay runners go the distance
Friday 31 May 2002
5,000 people from across the United Kingdom are preparing for one of the biggest days of their lives, and UK transport operator First will be there to help them go the distance.
First is an official supporter to The Queens Jubilee Baton Relay and is supplying nine midibuses that will form a vital part of the Relay convoy as it travels around the UK. The buses will carry the relay runners to their starting points, and pick them up after they have handed over the Baton to the next runner.
Eleven employees of First are taking part in the Relay. One of these is Geoff Wilkinson from Bitterne in Hampshire. Geoff is a retired employee of First who now represents the Hampshire Coalition of Disabled People, an organisation which will be playing a vital role in the Commonwealth Games. Commenting, Geoff said, "I am delighted and privileged to be taking part in this historic event on behalf of First.'
Stuart Render, public relations manager for the bus division of First, said: "To be part of this once-in-a-lifetime event is a great honour for First. The Queens Jubilee Baton Relay is a major element of the forthcoming Commonwealth Games, the biggest multi sport event the UK has ever seen. I am delighted that First will be playing such an important role in helping people across the UK to be part of it.'
"The contribution that First is making to The Relay is vital," said Di Henry, Event Director of The Queen's Jubilee Baton Relay. "The buses are the first contact that our Runners have with The Relay and we couldn't have more faith in First's ability to deliver our 5,000 Runners to their starting positions and return them safely. We are delighted that First are on board!"
First is also an official partner of the Commonwealth Games providing 95 brand new single deck buses that will carry athletes, officials and the media to all the Games venues during the event which runs from 25 July to 4 August.
Further information on the Queens Jubilee Baton Relay and the XVII Commonwealth Games can be obtained from www.commonwealthgames.com or from the Commonwealth Games information line on 0870 609 2002.