Olympic torch dreams still alight!

Paul Bennington (39) and Dominic Hurley (38) and are in the running to be named among 8,000 members of the London 2012 relay.

Thev have made it through to the next stage of the selection process.

They now have a one in 14 chance of taking part in the Olympic run, with the lucky relay members to be revealed in December.

Dominic, of Dalton, has defied doctors’ declarations that he would never walk again after suffering a severe brain injury 16 years ago and spending three months in a coma.

He has proved the doubters wrong and in the last three years has raised £53,000 for charity through his love of cycling, winning several awards for his inspirational efforts.

Paul, of Brampton Bierlow, is a triathlete who has helped set up and maintain facilities at Manvers Lake and was central to the recent launches of the Dearne Valley Triathlon and South Yorkshire half marathon.

He also works with young people to warn them of the dangers of open water swimming.

Wentworth and Dearne MP John Healey welcomed the pair’s progress and said that he was hopeful that they would go all the way.

John said: “The selection panels are looking for inspirational stories of personal achievement and contribution to the local community.

“I think Dom and Paul are perfect examples of that and thoroughly deserve the honour of carrying the Olympic flame when it comes to Yorkshire.”