Newham embraced the Olympics with open arms and now the stage is set today for the borough to welcome the world Part Two…as the Paralympics are about to arrive.

And the buzz in our part of the world is that this could be an even bigger success...and a more local Games!

Many more of us have bought tickets. Paralympians from all over the world have been arriving. The new-look athletes village has undergone a huge transformation ikn just five days.

The Torch Relay arrives in Newham after the Opening Ceremony has started and excitement is mopunting as our Team GB paralympians are looking for a great medal haul.

Mayor Sir Robin Wales said: “We’re getting a second opportunity to enjoy the magic of the London 2012 Games with the arrival of the Paralympics. We’ve got another torch relay, another party in the park and more incredible athletic achievements.

“When we first made the bid for the Games, I don’t think anyone could have foreseen how everyone would have embraced the Paralympics and got behind our athletes.

The demand for tickets has not diminished – which is an incredible achievement in itself – and we will be working hard with Games organisers LOCOG to get hold of as many as we can for residents.”

He added: “The Paralympic Games will leave a real legacy that includes disabled people using the stadium. I have already invited the British Paralympic Association to help us ensure a truly inclusive legacy for anyone with a disability. We want every member of our community to access their Olympic Stadium. Our commitment to disability sport is well-known; our Chairs in the Community project is a great idea where we offer wheelchairs to young people and community groups – both able-bodied and disabled – to try out different sports.

“People who wouldn’t otherwise get the chance are also getting involved in wheelchair basketball and rugby. Swim club Newham Otters host a free weekly family swim for disabled children and their families at our leisure centres.

“School children across the borough have also been learning about the Paralympic Games. We’ve got a brilliant opportunity to teach youngsters about achievement and diversity which is so important. There should be no distinction between ability and disability. So after a fantastic Olympic Games we now look forward to what we believe will be the best ever Paralympic Games. The UK is the birthplace of the Paralympic movement and so London’s Games will show the world how just amazing and inspiring elite Paralympic sport can be.

They will ensure all the Paralympic values of determination, inspiration, courage and equality to complete are shared by everyone.