'Medals a priority' for Midlands based flag bearer

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Team GB flag bearer, Jon Eley, in Sochi Credit: EMPICS Sport/EMPICS Sport

The Midlands born Olympian named as Team GB's flag bearer has labelled his selection as 'an amazing privilege', but remains focused for medals.

Jon Eley, 29, who is from Solihull and now lives in Nottingham, has said he is delighted with the news he will lead out the team at the opening ceremony in Sochi.

Jon is Britain's most experienced speed skater and currently the world record holder for the 5000m relay event.

  • 1996 - first tried short track to improve his ice hockey

  • 1999 - began competing for Team GB, aged 15

  • 2006 - 5th place for 500m in Winter Olympics in Turin

  • 2007 - first British short track speed skater to win gold at a World cup

  • 2008 - won gold at European championships

  • 2010 - 6th place for 500m in Winter Olympics in Vancouver

  • 2011 - part of team who broke 5000m relay world record

Jon Eley leads his team in a practice session in Sochi. Credit: David Davies/PA Wire/Press Association Images

The 2014 Winter Olympics official opening ceremony will take place from 4pm on Friday 7th February, the Speed Skating events begin on Saturday 8th February.