The hunt is on for 8,000 Torchbearers to carry the Olympic torch on its 8,000 mile journey around the UK and the British Isles. Together with the three Presenting Partners – Coca-Cola, Lloyds TSB and Samsung – LOCOG is seeking 8,000 of the most inspirational people to have their moment to shine next summer by carrying the Olympic Flame. And while the flame is on the Isle of Man residents will be given the opportunity to be Torchbearers. Hon David Cretney MHK, Minister for Community, Culture and Leisure, said: ‘We have many inspirational people in the Island and I hope people will take this opportunity to nominate them to showcase the wonderful talent and bravery Island residents can demonstrate.’ The LOCOG Torchbearer programme to find 2,012 inspirational people who have gone beyond their personal best will run for six weeks from today. The nomination portal at www.london2012.com/olympictorchrelay asks nominators for up to 150 words on why their nominee should carry the Olympic Flame. The deadline for nominating through the LOCOG campaign is 11.59pm on Wednesday 29 June 2011. Judging panels will be set up in each Nation and Region of the UK to select the Torchbearers for their area and the Department of Community, Culture and Leisure will work with LOCOG to confirm the Torchbearers for the Isle of Man. There is a minimum age limit to be a Torchbearer of 12 years. Some 90% of the 8,000 Torchbearer places will be made available to the public through a number of channels including the four public nomination campaigns to be run by LOCOG, Coca-Cola, Lloyds TSB and Samsung. Each of the 8,000 Torchbearers will have a story of achievement and or contribution to their local community. ENDS