Tyrone Mclean, 16, has been recognised for his community and charity work

A kind hearted teenager from Harlesden has described his “disbelief” at being chosen to carry the Olympic torch.

Tyrone Mclean, 16, who lives in Harlesden Gardens, was recognised for his tireless community and charity work and has been selected to run with the flame on July 25.

Speaking to the Times, the Queen’s Park Community School pupil said he couldn’t believe it when he found out he had been selected.

He said: “I had to read and re-read the email I was sent quite a few times before it actually sank in that I was going to be doing it.

“It’s a great honour, I don’t know who nominated me but I am very proud.”

Tyrone has spent the last few months volunteering at Amethyst, a charitable organisation which provides advice and teaching programmes to black and disadvantaged families in Brent.

“I didn’t think I would enjoy it as much as I have done,” he explained, “It gives you a different outlook on life when you are able to help people who are not as fortunate as you are.”

In his spare time the teenager, who stands at 6ft 4ins tall, enjoys playing basketball, football and badminton and plans to go to university after finishing his A-levels.

He continued: “I think the Olympics are going to be great.Seeing so many great sportsmen and women in London and Brent will be brilliant.

Brent will play host to football, gymnastics and badminton during the games, which starts two days after Tyrone runs through the streets of Harrow.

He added: “I am going to enjoy my moment with the torch as much as I can. We don’t have too long with it so I am going to take it quite slowly and make the most of the opportunity.”

For more information about Amethyst’s work, email amethystcounselling1@hotmail.co.uk.