SPORTY volunteers are invited to help carry the Commonwealth Games "torch" through the borough.

The Queen's Jubilee Baton Relay passes through the town on July 23 next year on its way to the opening ceremony two days later.

Nominations must be in by January 4 to become one of the 5,000 people who will carry the baton across Britain in a series of relay legs.

Organisers say that all will be considered, from community champions to sporting stalwarts or an extra special mum.

Mr Adrian Frost, Bury's Games co-ordinator, said: "Individuals can run, walk, ride or wheel their way on the relay. Each leg is around 500 metres, which should be achievable by most people."

The hi-tech baton is scheduled to arrive in Bury from Bolton before heading on to Rochdale.

Councillor John Byrne, council leader, said it was "quite something" to be part of what is a global sporting occasion.

"The hope is to choose those who have made a significant contribution to their local community, in whatever way, and give them the opportunity to step into the limelight," he said. "We want to see as many names as possible put forward from the borough. The more the better."

Nominations can be made by picking up a form, telephoning the Games hotline on 0870-6092002 or going online at www.commonwealthgames2002.com. Bury is planning a range of events to link into the Manchester games, and still hopes to "adopt a nation".