WHAT a year for Forest of Dean power lifter Nathan Fisher! Having picked up four medals as a competitor in the World Special Olympics in Athens, his wonderful run continued when he carried the Olympic Flame in Evesham on Sunday.

Over 70 friends joined Nathan's family to cheer him on as, flanked by members of the Metropolitan Police escort runners, he proudly performed his once-in-a-lifetime duty.

Fitness Centre supporters joined thousands of enthusiasts and displayed banners made by pupils at Heywood School, Cinderford.

Nathan later joined supporters for a cruise and a celebration lunch aboard the MV Conway Castle. He was cheered aboard by the crew and made a speech thanking his family and Fitness Centre members for their support over the past year.

Thanks were also given to the trustees, Grindles Coaches and Robert Knight.

During the cruise a competition and an auction raised £335 for the centre's equipment fund.