A CHAMPION gymnast is spearheading a drive to encourage more disabled youngsters to take up sport.
Patrick Bonner is seven times British Champion in sports acrobatics. He came third in the 2001 World Games and European Championships and is reigning World Cup Champion in mixed pairs.
Now the 25-year-old from Durham has a different challenge, having been appointed disability sports development officer for Tees Valley Sport.
It is his job to identify and develop ways youngsters and adults with disabilities can develop their sporting potential.
He said: "At present, the number of disabled people who take part in sports and physical activity is far lower than it should be. My aim, through Tees Valley Sport, is to improve access to sport across the Tees Valley - to encourage more disabled youngsters and adults into sport and physical activity.
"I plan to develop and enhance a number of projects and schemes which will open up new opportunities for disabled adults and youngsters, so that they can fully participate in the sport they enjoy."
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