Ex-Blue Peter presenter will carry torch

2:39pm Friday 4th April 2008

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Former Blue Peter presenter Konnie Huq will carry the Olympic torch on Sunday despite pressure to pull out over China's oppression of protesters in Tibet.

The 32-year-old from Chiswick has insisted her participation "does not in any way indicate support" for the Chinese regime.

She said: "I've decided to take part because I am committed to the Olympic ideals which reach out to people.

"I am also carrying the torch for London 2012."

Huq will be part of an 80-strong team that will carry the torch from Wembley to the O2 arena.

The Free Tibet Campaign is calling on torch bearers to re-consider their roles and wants all public figures to boycott the relay and opening and closing ceremonies of the Games.

Chinese ambassador Fu Ying urged campaigners to keep political issues out of the Games, adding: "You don't solve them on the football ground or the swimming pool."