A woman who has devoted her life to charity has been chosen to be a Queen’s Batonbearer ahead of the Commonwealth Games

Vera Parnaby, who lives in Blackhill, Consett, has raised over £1 million for the Royal British Legion and started selling poppies over 75 years ago.

Mrs Parnaby said: “I am very honoured and proud to be taking part and putting Consett on the map.”

Mrs Parnaby was chosen by North-West Durham MP Richard who also nominated Tracey Greenhaugh, a community champion working at Morrisons in Consett.

Along with thousands of other inspiring Batonbearers, they will take part in this once in a lifetime opportunity and carry the Baton as it continues its journey around England.

Mr Holden has met Mrs Parnaby before in her capacity as a fundraising superstar and last year he put her forward for a Prime Minister’s Points of Light award which she won.

He said: “Vera is a legend of North West Durham.

“She has spent her whole life helping others, and it is this character which makes her the perfect choice for Batonbearer.

“Tracey has done a huge amount of local community work. They are real local champions.

“When I met Vera and Tracey to tell them the news, they were so very happy. I look forward to seeing them carry the baton for our area, we are all so proud and everyone will be rooting for them.”

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