Community worker and volunteer Charlene Novak spoke of her pride after taking part in the Huddersfield leg of the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay.

The baton has been around the world as it heads to Birmingham for the Commonwealth Games which starts on July 28.

Charlene, of the Jubilee Centre in Paddock, was nominated to take part because she and her family have organised a Christmas meal for those alone on Christmas Day for the last 13 years.

Mum-of-four Charlene, 40, met up with the other baton bearers – all from around Yorkshire – and said it was “emotional” hearing all their stories of volunteering and helping others.

Charlene (pictured left on the main image above) said she was “honoured and privileged” to take part but admitted it “felt a little bit strange” to be in the spotlight.

“I’m passionate about what I do and love seeing people together,” she said. “I hate the thought of anyone being alone.”

Gallery of images by: SEAN DOYLE

The baton bearers – which included Charlotte Lister from Doncaster, Julia Jones (Barnsley), Graham Boanas (Hull), Christa Minns (Barnsley), Zakaria Rob (Sheffield), Rachael Bradders (Halifax) and Amrik Mahal (Bramhall) – met up at the Hudawi Centre before joining the relay team in St George’s Square.

The baton bearers then carried the baton for short stretches as they headed to Greenhead Park where there was a reception with the Mayor of Kirklees Clr Masood Ahmed and Cabinet member for culture Clr Will Simpson.

A cultural event celebrating the nations and cultures of the Commonwealth also took place in the park.