Queen’s Baton Relay 2022: Will the baton visit Bristol this year, where can it be seen by the public

Bristol will host the Queen’s Baton Relay, it has been announced today.

The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games has unveiled the route that the Queen’s Baton Relay will take in Bristol and the rest of the host nation this summer.

It will coincide with the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Weekend which will celebrate the monarch’s 70th year on the throne.

The baton will travel across the country, visiting 180 communities over a course of 2,500 miles.

In Bristol, it will arrive on July 5 when it will stop at Empire Fighting Chance (EFC) and St Agnes Park.

Mayor of Bristol, Marvin Rees, said: “I am looking forward to welcoming the Queen’s Baton Relay to Bristol this summer.

“We are one of hundreds of communities across the country that make up part of the route in the lead up to the games.”

During the visit at EFC, the batonbearer will be invited to spar with local boxer Lee Haskins.

Mr Rees said: “When we were asked to choose a venue for the batonbearer to visit, Empire Fighting Chance’s boxing gym was an obvious choice, as not only have they produced Commonwealth champions, they make a real difference to the lives of local young people.”

EFC uses non-contact boxing, education and mentoring to support young people from deprived communities to make changes in their lives.

In 2021, EFC helped over 4,900 eight to 25 year olds across the south west and Wales.

They tackled knife crime and reduced anti-social behaviour.

Chris Sanigar, ambassador of EFC, said: “Grassroots sports in communities around the country can change lives.

“We are delighted that the Queen’s Baton Relay is coming to Empire Fighting Chance.

“This is an opportunity for us to celebrate young people from Bristol who have gone on to be Commonwealth champions.

“We want to inspire our local school children to become the next sports champion.

After visiting the gym at 11am, the  baton will head to St Agnes Park for 11.20am, via St Paul’s Adventure Playground at 11.10am, to meet with children from local schools.

If any local residents wish to see the baton it is at the park where they will have the best chance of spotting a glimpse .

Commonwealth Games Federation President, Dame Louise Martin, DBE, said: “The Queen’s Baton Relay symbolises hope, solidarity and collaboration across the Commonwealth at a time when it is needed most.

“It continues to inspire people wherever it goes and creates huge excitement for Birmingham 2022 as it journey towards the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony on July 28.”