A CELEBRATED local paralympic athlete will officially open a new building society branch on his home patch next week.

Swimmer Lyndon Longhorne, who made his Paralympic debut at Tokyo 2020, will cut the ribbon on Darlington Building Society's relocated Bishop Auckland high street branch on Monday (June 26).

Lyndon said: “As a local lad from Crook, I’ve often trained in the pool at Woodhouse Close Leisure Complex, so Bishop Auckland has played a big part in my life and my career.

"I’m, therefore, very proud and flattered to be asked to open the town’s new Darlington Building Society branch.

“I know the society has a fantastic reputation for supporting the communities they serve and, in a time when so many banks are closing local branches, it’s really heartening to see this sort of dedication to our high streets.”

After contracting meningitis as a baby, Lyndon lost his left leg below the knee, right leg above the knee, right hand, and left-hand fingertips, but by the age of 15 he was competing in national swimming championships.

He was selected for Team GB for the 2020 Paralympic games in Tokyo, and now the 27-year-old is training hard for Paris 2024, hoping to again earn a spot on the British team at trials next Spring.

The branch has been located at Waverley House, at 116 Newgate Street, since 2000 but is moving to larger and more modern premises in the former Clinton Cards building at 30 Newgate Street, close to Newgate Shopping Centre. It will be open to members from 9am on Monday.

Andrew Craddock, chief executive of Darlington Building Society, said: “Lyndon has achieved so much in his life despite the challenges he has faced, we are thrilled to be supporting him as he strives for Paris 2024 and hope the community will get behind him too.

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“Lyndon’s passion and dedication is immeasurable and it is a privilege to invite him to join us as we open our new branch.”

To celebrate the opening, a free community open day will take place at the new branch on Saturday, July 1, from 10am to 1pm. Entertainment and activities will include stilt-walkers, bubble blowing, ice cream, and face-painting.

“The day is a fantastic opportunity to meet our Bishop Auckland colleagues, have a look around our new branch, and enjoy the fun,” added Mr Craddock.