Olympic Torch relay is a family affair for East Lancashire couple (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Olympic Torch relay is a family affair for East Lancashire couple

2:20pm Thursday 21st June 2012 in Sport By Lisa Woodhouse, Assistant picture editor

HUSBAND and wife teachers Bob and Jan Sutcliffe have both been chosen to carry the Olympic torch – but in separate towns.

The pair are one of only a handful of couples to be given the honour of carrying the flame.

Bob Sutcliffe, 41, who is an infant teacher at St Mary's Primary School, Osbaldeston, ran in Appleby-in-Westmorland yesterday after being nominated by a former work colleague.

And Jan Sutcliffe, 42, who is also an infant school teacher at Westholme School, Blackburn, was chosen to carry the torch through Keswick today because of her dedicated charity work.

Bob has been described by his colleagues as an inspiration for not only overcoming adult epilepsy but for the effect he has had on his students.

He said: “We feel really honoured to both be selected. I think it’s quite rare for a couple to both be chosen – it feels a bit surreal.”

Jan, who has helped to raise money for charities such as Cancer Research, the North West Air Ambulance and different children's charities, said: “I am very privileged and enthusiastic about carrying the torch.

"I am looking forward to the atmosphere, it will be very emotional."

The couple, who live in Grange-Over-Sands, said that family and friends would also be cheering them on.

Bob said: "Sadly we didn't get tickets to the Games.

“But I think we got the better deal by being chosen to carry the torch.

The Sutcliffes, who run the Sutcliffe School of Swimming at Westholme School, are looking forward to watching the swimming events during the Olympic Games.

Bob said: “I'd love Rebecca Adlington to win and for all the GB athletes to shine.”

Jan said: “I am also looking forward to seeing runner Usain Bolt compete.”