The Epsom youth club that Paralympic gold medallist David Weir attended has spoken of its pride after he was awarded a CBE in the New Years Honours List.
Weir, a wheelchair athlete, won four gold medals at the London Paralympics. He won gold in the 5,000m, 1,500m, 800m and the marathon.
The Wallington born athlete was born with spinal injuries, which meant he has been confined to a wheelchair for all of his life.
He attended the Epsom Phab youth club as a child. The club has provided activities for disabled and able-bodied members for 30 years.
Youth club leader Julia Giles described Weir's achievements as an inspiration to members of the Epsom Phab.
She said "We are delighted that David has been awarded the CBE, he has worked so hard to reach the world beating standard and his achievement of 4 Golds in the Paralympics was incredible. He has been a real inspiration to so many people, including the young people at Epsom Phab".
"Each year we go up to support him in the London Marathon – we have a front row view as most people turn up to watch after the wheelchair racers have gone through.
"When we went to see him win the Marathon at the Paralympics there were so many people we could hardly see him, it was fantastic that so many people had come out to support him. We are very proud of him".
