Torchbearer Traci completes her relay in Exeter

Traci Markell

Traci, a buyer in the Procurement department at South West Water's headquarters in Peninsula Park, Exeter, carried the flame along Haven Road as hundreds of supporters lined the streets.

Traci was nominated for her sporting activities which have supported local and national charities including water industry charity WaterAid.

Traci, 44, from Tipton St John, said: "My part in the relay might have been over in just a few minutes but the experience will stay with me for a lifetime. My family in Australia were watching it live and emailed straight away to say they had seen me and how proud they were.

"It went like a blur with so many people wanting to be part of the occasion. The torch has this special effect.

"The Olympic and Lloyds TSB support team took all the pressure away so I could enjoy the moment. It was like being taken on this fantastic journey."

Lloyds TSB gave South West Water's parent company Pennon Group an opportunity to take part in the relay and Traci was nominated by South West Water's Head of Procurement Mike Davies.

Traci led the company's team which won the 2011 Exeter Business Games, raising over £500 for the South West MS Centre and WaterAid. She is also a founder of the SHARKS netball team, took part in Exeter Rowing Club's 10km sponsored row, helping to raise £250 for The Stroke Association, and the Michelmores Challenge annual corporate yacht race which raises funds for the UK Sailing Academy.

Continue to follow the Olympic torch as it passes through the South West. http://www.bbc.co.uk/torchrelay

Published: 21 May 2012

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