A MAN who for many years has done much to repay a debt of gratitude he believes he owes Bromsgrove for the way townsfolk welcomed him as an orphan, could represent the town as a carrier of the Olympic Flame next year.

Dennis Norton has been nominated as a torchbearer in the Olympic torch relay, which will be taking place ahead of next summer’s London games.

Dennis was raised in Bromsgrove’s orphanage and, after leaving at the age of 15, went on to make a significant contribution to the town.

Dennis was Bromsgrove District Council leader for more than three years, is a former court leet bailiff, and was a prime mover in saving the Recreation Ground from development.

In 1992, he gave his lifetime's collection of 30,000 historic artefacts to the council and has worked tirelessly for them to be displayed in Bromsgrove Museum, for the benefit of townsfolk, ever since.

Earlier this year, Dennis led a fundraising drive and project to restore and reopen the town’s famous lych gate, after it was damaged by vandals nearly a year ago.

Dennis told the Advertiser: “I am extremely honoured to have been nominated.

“I would be very proud to carry the torch on behalf of Bromsgrove people.”

Dennis has been put forward for the role by Bromsgrove MP Sajid Javid.

Mr Javid said: “Dennis is someone who has given so much to Bromsgrove and all his life has done tremendous work for the community.

“He is certainly a worthy candidate.”

Lloyds TSB, one of the relay sponsors, has accepted Dennis’ nomination. From all the nominees a shortlist will be drawn up, which will then be put forward to one of 12 judging panels around the UK.

In December, Dennis will learn if he is one of 8,000 people chosen to be a torchbearer.