PARALYMPICS LONDON 2012: Wheelchair tennis star Norfolk named as Great Britain's flag bearer

By Sportsbeat staff, London 2012

DOUBLE Paralympic champion Peter Norfolk has been named as Great Britain's flag bearer for next week's London 2012 opening ceremony.

PROUD: Peter Norfolk, dubbed the quadfather, is a two-time Paralympic champion and will carry the British flag at the opening ceremony at London 2012

Wheelchair tennis player Norfolk won quad singles gold in Athens and Beijing and has also a doubles silver and bronze in his collection.

He arrives in London ranked world number three in singles and number one, alongside Jamie Burdekin, in doubles.

“I’m absolutely blown away to be selected as the British flag bearer for the opening ceremony," he said. 

"It was a huge surprise when I was told and I feel it is a very great honour.

"I can feel the excitement is really building as everyone is talking about the Games and getting behind the athletes wishing them luck. 

"I’m very humbled to lead in the ParalympicsGB team that I’m sure can make Great Britain very, very proud. 

“This will be my first opening ceremony as my playing schedules have meant I missed the other two so this will be an especially magical moment for me.”

British chef de mission Craig Hunter is still negotiating with organising committee officials about the size of the home delegation at the ceremony.

He expects between  third and half of the 300-strong team to be involved but has been seeking assurances over transport from the athletes' village to the stadium.

"To carry the flag at the head of the team at any Games is a unique honour but this is made even more special because it will be in front of a home crowd," said Hunter.

“Pete has been selected following a vote from his fellow team-members so this is true recognition of his outstanding sporting achievement.”

© Sportsbeat 2012