Claire Young will run alongside the torch with her security team.

A police officer has been chosen from hundreds to guard the Olympic flame as it makes its way through her hometown.

Pc Claire Young will run alongside the torch on various legs of its journey including in Stevenage in July – a challenge the keen sportswoman said will be her chance to join the national celebration.

The 33-year-old was selected from nearly 700 police staff and officers as part of a 70-strong-team to protect runners as they cross the country. She has been in training for the last 18-months.

Claire said she has worked to maintain her physical fitness with endurance training, running and hockey, and has been inspired by meeting Olympic legends, hurdlers Collin Jackson and Sally Gunnell.

“I wanted to join the torch security team as there are going to be 8,000 people carrying the torch, each having their own moment - their own chance to shine. I wanted to be a part of that and part of what the Olympics stands for.”

The 70-day torch relay began on Saturday at Lands End and will pass through Stevenage and Letchworth GC on July 8 – the fiftieth day of the journey.