2010 was not a good year for Claire Scarff from Feltwell, near Thetford.

Not only did the mother-of-four lose both of her parents within a month of each other, but she was also diagnosed with skin cancer, which has led to her having a nostril removed.

The 44-year-old, who is married to Chris, also suffers from Myalgic Encephalopathy (ME) which leaves her feeling tired as well as arthritis which was brought on by psoriasis.

Despite all of this Mrs Scarff runs 1st Feltwell Beaver and Cub groups as well as Feltwell Playgroup, she is chair of the Parent Teacher Association at Edmund De Moundeford school in Feltwell, she is a school governor there and she is president of the Feltwell Women’s Institute.

The inspirational torchbearer said she can walk for short distances using two sticks, but there was just no way she was going to be able to manage the 300 metres for the relay. So, instead, she will carry the Olympic torch through Haverhill shortly by mobility scooter.

Mrs Scarff said she was very excited about today.

“And my husband and children have been so supportive throughout everything I do and they are really excited as well and that will be wonderful to see.”