Carl Clark, a pastoral outreach worker and local town councillor in Mid Norfolk, will carry the Olympic flame when it reaches the region in July.
Carl, a Breckland and Thetford town councillor for the Thetford Abbey ward and a pastoral outreach worker at The Bishop's Church of England Primary School, was nominated by Thetford Healthy Towns for his work, including running a boxing club for young people and a cycle share scheme.
He was told before Christmas that he would carry the torch for 300 metres of its journey between Chelmsford and Cambridge on July 7, surrounded by his family and friends.
As a pastoral outreach worker in Thetford, he is bringing hope and purpose to hundreds of youngsters, while founding a successful award-winning community scheme and speaking up for those without a voice as a district and town councilor
His life has been turned around in recent years. "Five years ago I was homeless and living in the woods after a broken marriage and no job but I was still smiling and optimistic, knowing God was by my side," said Carl.
"Today Jesus has restored the past with new freedom and vitality and He can do that for anyone since there are always second, third and fourth chances with Him. I now have the perfect job, wonderful wife, great friends and a great future - anything is possible with God."
