A Bradford teenager who has dedicated himself to voluntary work from the age of 12 has earned a place as an Olympic torchbearer.

Thomas Stokes, of Little Horton, was nominated by One In A Million, a charity based at Bradford City Football Club providing for children in deprived areas, who he has volunteered with for the last seven years.

The 19-year-old, known to his friends as TJ, will be carrying the torch when it passes through the Bradford district on Sunday, June 24.

Thomas, who hopes to become an actor after earning a place at the Manchester School of Acting, said: “I lived on the Canterbury estate in Bradford where One In A Million first started working and I have volunteered for them since I was 12.

“I worked with a sports development worker to set up a youth club for children aged seven to 12 and that was the moment my life changed from a layabout to assistant head coach of a brilliant project.

“By the time I was 17, One in a Million offered me an apprenticeship and I have been working there for more than two years.”

Thomas has now qualified as an activity leader and runs various sessions for children and young people.

He said: "My message for young people is that there are things out there for you and you should grab each opportunity with both hands. If you haven’t done too well at school like me, remember it is not the end of your dreams or the career you really want.

“To be chosen as one of the 8,000 torchbearers is a massive achievement and something that I will never forget.”

Bradford Council is holding a celebration event on Sunday, June 24, in City Park when the torch will pass through the city centre on its way to Keighley and Ilkley, as well as hosting activities in Lister Park.

Councillor Andrew Thornton, Bradford Council’s executive member for sport, said: “The torch relay recognises inspirational individuals and Thomas certainly fits the bill. I hope the crowds turn out in big numbers to urge him and the other torchbearers on what promises to be a very memorable day for them and Bradford.”

Wayne Jacobs, a former Bradford City player and co-founder of One in a Million, said: "When we set up the charity, we were wanting to inspire children and young people to believe in their futures, to have aspirations. TJ is the epitome of what we do.

“We are so proud of all that he has achieved and are really pleased that he was chosen to carry the torch. He’s not just an ambassador for the charity, but a positive example to other young people in Bradford.”

The relay will travel along Manchester Road before passing across City Park’s mirror pool, along Manningham Lane and Keighley Road to Lister Park.

It is due to arrive in Bradford city centre at about 2.40pm before reaching Keighley at about 3.40pm and Ilkley about 4.45pm. For more information, visit bradfordgold.com.