A CRICKET coach nominated as a baton bearer for the Queen ahead of this year's Commonwealth Games.

Rob Franks, of Poole, was stunned when he discovered that he'd been selected for the honourin the Queen's Baton Relay by an anonymous nominee.

Rob said: "I was pretty blown away, I didn't know I was nominated when I found out the news."

Rob has made significant contributions to his community. Back in lockdown, he launched a fundraising campaign and donated laptops to ensure that underprivileged children were not left behind when schools were closed.

The cricket coach had his left leg amputated above the knee four years ago after suffering an injury while playing a match.

Complications from surgery left him in agony for several years afterwards prompting the decision to remove the limb.

Although he was able to resume playing cricket thanks to an electric prosthetic knee and leg, he required another batsman at the crease to do his running.

Now the dad-of-two has acquired a running blade, which he will now be using whilst carrying the Queens baton. 

Rob said: "It means the world to me. It just goes to show that no matter what happens in life good things can happen.

"If I can inspire just one person then I will be happy."