An online campaign for Bournemouth's famous Gordon the Tramp to carry the Olympic Torch has gained almost eighteen thousand supporters.

Gordon Roberts, who's eighty-two and actually lives in a house in Red Hill, has gained legendary status in the town for his big white beard and ability to tell the exact time despite not wearing a watch.

London 2012 organisers have called for inspirational members of the public to be nominated to carry the torch across the country next year, and a Facebook campaign was started on Gordon's behalf in July.