Final call for Batonbearers as nominations for the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay near close in England

The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games has announced that there is just one week left in the search to find 2,022 Batonbearers for the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay in England, with nominations closing on Monday 14 February at 11:59pm.

Nominations opened on 11 January and many inspirational stories from across the country have already been submitted. Batonbearers will play a major role in the Queen’s Baton Relay when it returns to England this summer, taking on the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to carry the Queen’s Baton in their region during the final build-up to the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

The countdown is now officially on, with just seven days left to make nominations before the deadline. Anyone can nominate a Batonbearer and the ideal candidate is someone who has made a meaningful contribution in areas such as education, the arts, or charity; is a figure of inspiration who positively challenges others to achieve their best; or is passionate about making a positive impact within their community.

The Queen’s Baton Relay is a Games tradition that builds anticipation for the forthcoming Games by celebrating, connecting, and exciting communities across the Commonwealth and shining a light on untold stories and unsung local heroes from the places it visits.

Nominations can be made by visiting the Birmingham 2022 website and submitting 100 words or less on how the nominee is making a difference in their community and why they deserve to take on this special role.

Nominations are open for all nine regions of England, which is where the Baton will visit in July and Batonbearers must be aged 12 or over as of 2 June 2022.

Lisa Hampton, Head of the Queen’s Baton Relay, said:

“We opened Batonbearer nominations at the start of the year and we’ve already seen some truly amazing stories of inspiring figures across England. Now there’s only one week to go until nominations close, and we want to make sure we’ve captured everyone who has made a difference within their communities, so they can be in with the chance of carrying the Baton and representing England this summer. If you haven’t already, make sure you submit your nominations before the deadline on the 14th February! We can’t wait to read them.”

Cllr Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said:

“The role of Batonbearer is always a tremendous honour for those who are selected to carry it as part of the lead up to the Commonwealth Games.

“Time is running out, so if you know of an inspirational figure in your family, neighbourhood or community who can take it on here in the Proud Host City of Birmingham or the Proud Host Nation of England, please get in touch and make a nomination, so we can show off to the Commonwealth and wider world what the 2022 Games are all about.”

The criteria for a Batonbearer is someone who meets one or more of the following:

• Always willing to take on a challenge and has a unique and inspiring story.
• Has made a meaningful contribution to sport, education, the arts, culture, or charity.
• Is a figure of inspiration that positively challenges others to achieve their best.
• Has taken on a challenge or cause and made a positive impact within their community.

Nominations for Batonbearers for the Queen’s Baton Relay in England are open until 11:59pm on Monday 14 February. To nominate and find out more, visit the Commonwealth Games website.