A Worcestershire teacher will carry the Commonwealth Games baton when it comes to the West Midlands this summer.

Pershore College tutor Kevin Redmond, 52, will be tasked with carrying the baton through one leg of the Midlands tour as part of Queen’s Baton Relay.

He has been given the honour in recognition of his work supporting people with disabilities to play and engage with sport.

“Sport has been a huge part of my life since I was a child, so to get the chance to be part of a major international event is really exciting,” said Mr Redmond.

“I’ve never done any of my coaching or teaching for accolades, I just wanted to make a difference.”

Mr Redmond, from Halesowen, coaches as part of the Leamington FC Academy of Sporting Excellence at Pershore College and Moreton Morrell College, while also teaching on the Level Three Sport course.

As part of his work with Leamington FC, Mr Redmond serves as the club’s lead disability coach and runs training sessions for children of all ages at Aylesford School.

This work saw him named as one of 14 Hometown Heroes who have dedicated their lives to grassroots sport in the West Midlands.

Mr Redmond added: “To be named a Hometown Hero was incredible and becoming a baton bearer is a great honour.

“I was actually on the baton bearer selection panel and had no idea that I had been nominated too, hopefully I won’t have to run too far!

“The selection stems back to my work with the disability side at Solihull Moors, which include working with a group cerebral palsy students from age four to 19.

“I’m proud of the work I’ve done in that area and would like to thank everyone who has supported me in helping to create a safe environment for my team and players to thrive.”

The West Midlands’ leg runs from July 18 to 28, and Mr Redmond will soon find out which day he will be picked to run.

Philippa Gerrard, head of FE Sport at Pershore College, said: “It will be truly inspiring for our students to see a member of staff represent the industry and college on a global scale.

“His selection as a baton bearer is much deserved and from everyone at WCG, I would like to wish Kevin all the best for the baton relay and hope he enjoys what will surely be an unforgettable experience.”