Sir Cliff carries Olympic Torch (From Western Telegraph)

Sir Cliff carries Olympic Torch

8:22pm Saturday 30th June 2012 in National News © Press Association 2013

Singer Sir Cliff Richard has carried the Olympic Torch as it continued its journey through the Midlands.

The singer held the torch just before 8pm on Saturday as the relay made its way to an evening event at Cannon Hill Park in Edgbaston, Birmingham.

And Sir Cliff was not the only pop star to carry the torch. Earlier boyband The Wanted carried the flame through Newtown as it made its journey towards the UK's second city, where it will spend the night.

Some of Sir Cliff's most well-known songs were played as he took over the flame.

Thousands cheered "C'mon Cliffie" and waved as he ran and danced his way through the streets of Birmingham on its way to the final event.

Another torchbearer who carried the flame was paralysed rugby player Ben Smoldon.

The 37-year-old carried the torch in Smethwick after being nominated by Sutton Coldfield Rugby Club.

Mr Smoldon suffered a broken neck in a collapsed scrum while captain of the club's colts side when he was 17, leaving him paralysed. He is now permanently quadriplegic and requires 24-hour care.

He volunteers still with the club and works with local charities, schools and universities to raise awareness of charitable funds for rugby and disability.

Before carrying the torch, Mr Smoldon, from Sutton Coldfield, told his local newspaper: "For me this is a chance to represent the town, a town that means a lot to me. Since my injury the people of Sutton Coldfield have been great to me. For me to hold the torch, it is for all of them as well."