County paralympian opens London fan-zone and hails event's progress

Paralympian Claire Cashmore officially opened the London 2012 fan-zone in Trafalgar Square

The Team GB star, who is competing in the F44 discus and shot-put, said the event was a "fantastic opportunity" to showcase Paralympic sport and inspire the next generation of athletes.

Cashmore, 24, from Stourbridge, said: "It's great to see so many people here supporting the Paralympics. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our sport and inspire the next generation of athletes."

The fan-zone, which is free to enter, features a range of interactive exhibits and activities

Some of the exhibits include a giant screen showing live coverage of the Games, a Paralympic sports simulator, and a chance to meet and greet Paralympic athletes.

The fan-zone is open daily from 11am to 10pm until 9 September.

Cashmore's comments come as the Paralympics continue to attract record crowds and TV audiences

The Games have been hailed as a "game-changer" for disability sport, and have helped to challenge perceptions of disability.

Cashmore said: "The Paralympics are a great opportunity to show the world what disabled people can achieve. I hope that by competing in the Games, I can inspire other people with disabilities to reach their full potential."

The London 2012 Paralympics are taking place from 29 August to 9 September.