Argyle so proud of Paralympic honour

AS a young boy he was inspired by Team GB wheelchair basketball stars and soon took to the court himself.

Now, teenager Argyle Bird, has been a part of the Paralympics, having carried the torch on the final leg of its journey into the Olympic park.

DUTY: Argyle in his torchbearer's uniform with the Paralympic torch.
BURNING BRIGHT: Argyle Bird at home with dad Andrew and mum Louise. Pictures: Peter Harbour

He was just 7 when he first clapped eyes on basketball player Ade Adepitan in action and dreamt of emulating his hero by playing the sport professionally.

Argyle's mother, Louise, nominated him after seeing an advertisement for the Paralympics in a Sainsbury's supermarket.

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She said: "It has been such a fantastic experience for Argyle and we are all so proud of him.

"Everyone has said how much he deserved this opportunity and there were thousands of people cheering him on.

"When he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at 18 months old we were very shocked.

"But you can deal with it in two ways, feel as though everything is over, or move on and adapt."

Since he was a pupil at Eastfield Primary School, Argyle has pushed to promote disability sports and make sure every child is able to take part in activities.

Now a student at Hessle High School, the 13-year-old joined the Sports Council and continues to appeal for improved access for disabled children.

Argyle said: "I don't want to sound big-headed but I think I've done well in school helping others.

"I'd like to work with disabled children one day and also compete in the Paralympics.

"Carrying the torch was amazing and Sainsbury's even bought me it as a gift."

Argyle, of west Hull, has been involved in wheelchair basketball for six years and plays with Yorkshire Under-15s, Leeds Spiders Under-15s and Hull Stingers Development League.

His twin sister, Imogen, went along with their mum Louise and dad Andrew to watch him carry the Olympic torch.

Louise, 43, said: "Argyle is such a good role model for young people and we were so pleased for him to be chosen.

"We've been back for one night and we're heading to London again to watch some of the Paralympic matches.

"The atmosphere will be electric."