Businessman Sir Martin Sorrell will be one of about 30 people to carry the Olympic Torch through the streets of Redbridge next weekend.
The 67-year-old is the chief executive officer of WPP Group, a global advertising agency.
He is credited for playing a key role in the Olympic Congress in 2009 when he helped to formulate a strategy to reach out to young athletes.
Though his selection has caused some controversy, Redbridge Cllr Paul Canal took to Twitter to defend his role as a torchbearer writing: “Sir Martin Sorrell and WPP: 158,000 employees; �44bn revenues; �10bn profit. All from scratch. Worthy Redbridge Torch carrier.”
Other torchbearers on Sunday, July 22 include 14-year-old Grace Boxall who has survived a brain tumour
The Olympic Flame will begin its tour through Redbridge at Redbridge Cycling Centre, Forest Road, Hainault at 7.19am.
It will go down Forest Road; High Street, Barkingside; Cranbrook Road; High Road, Ilford and Ilford Lane, Ilford
It will also be taken across the lake in Fairlop Waters Country Park in a sailing boat and will enter Valentines Park.
The borough’s celebrations, called Rise and Shine Redbridge, will feature early morning sports, cultural displays and a mass tai chi display as well as breakfast barbecues.
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