The Olympic Torch was carried into Jesmond last Friday (15th June) by Mark Stockman, who was cheered along a packed Sandyford Road.

Photograph by David Whinham

In addition to a heavy rugby league playing schedule for Gateshead Thunder U18’s, Scotland U18’s and the College Academy, Stockman, now 19, has managed to find time to volunteer with Wallsend Eagles rugby league club for the past two years, assisting with the U16’s squad and team manager at two regional player development centres.

He was named North East Young Volunteer of the Year and was runner up in the North Tyneside “Junior Sports Volunteer” and “Junior Sports Personality” awards.

Photograph by David Whinham