OLYMPIC boxing champion Nicola Adams will carry the Team GB flag in today's opening ceremony for the inaugural European Games in Azerbaijan.

The 32-year-old former Bradford College student, who won gold at the 2012 Olympics in London, was selected for the honour after being nominated by team leaders of the various sports in Baku because she upholds Olympic and Team GB values.

Adams, who will therefore represent the 160 British athletes, said: “To be representing Team GB at the first ever European Games is a great honour and being selected as the flag-bearer will be a truly unforgettable experience.

"I know that carrying the flag will be a very proud moment, not only for me and my family but also for everyone who has supported my career up to this point.

“I will always cherish the experience of leading Team GB into the stadium. I intend to use this honour to drive me on to perform as well as I can and encourage my team-mates to be their best. I hope that this is just the start of a successful Games for Team GB.”

Twice world amateur champion, Adams shot to national fame when she became the first women to win a boxing gold medal at the Olympic Games in 2012, and added the Commonwealth Games title in Glasgow last year.

Team GB chef de mission Mark England said: “Nicola is a superb choice to lead Team GB into the opening ceremony in Baku and we are very proud to have her as our flagbearer.

“As an Olympic champion, Nicola is a huge inspiration to the whole of the team. She understands and embraces the responsibilities that come with being an Olympian and a member of Team GB.

"As the first woman to win Olympic boxing gold, Nicola is a fantastic role model and will be the perfect person to embody the One Team GB values on opening ceremony night.”

During the parade, around 65,000 spectators will welcome athletes from each of the 50 European nations into the National Stadium, which will officially mark the start the of the first European Games.

Boxing team leader Rob McCracken added: “I am absolutely delighted for Nicola – being glagbearer is a huge honour for any athlete.

"Nicola has been flying the flag not just for British boxing but also for British sport ever since her amazing success in London.

“There is an extra responsibility that comes with being an Olympic champion, and Nicola has always shown the qualities required.

"I know that being flagbearer will be a huge inspiration, not only for her performance in Baku but also ahead of the Olympic Games in Rio next year.”