Occupational Health Nurse Manager Julie Atkins today had the honour of taking part in the Queen’s Baton Relay ahead of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Julie, who has worked for the NHS for 43 years and University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) NHS Trust for the last 10, got to carry the baton on its route from Kenilworth High Street to Kenilworth Castle.

“It was fabulous and there was a great turnout of people who came to watch,” said Julie, who is based at South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust.

“Everybody carrying the baton had a story to tell so it was lovely to meet them and listen to why they had been chosen.”

Julie was nominated by her Girlguiding colleagues for the inspiring volunteer work she carries out in Warwick and Kenilworth.

Speaking about her experience of volunteering, she added: “Volunteering has given me the opportunity to make new friends and develop new skills.

“As a mentor, I now assist our new volunteers with their leadership qualification. I am also a Leader/Assistant County Commissioner for Warwickshire, supporting all our members.

“It is great to see how these roles make a difference to the lives of girls within our community. I am inspired by the young females I meet every week.”

Richard Healey was chosen as a baton bearer in Riversley Park, Nuneaton, yesterday for his dedication as a UHCW volunteer for almost four years.

“It was a really nice day,” he said. “It was exceptionally well organised and they made sure there was plenty of time for photos with friends and family.”

The Queen’s Baton Relay has visited all 72 nations and territories of the Commonwealth on its journey to Birmingham, where the Games begin on Thursday, 28^th July