Cameron hails Paralympic Games as torch relay launched

Mayor of London Boris Johnson (left) with Prime Minister David Cameron during the lighting of the Paralympic Cauldron in Trafalgar Square. Photo: Yui Mok/PA Wire

Friday, August 24, 2012
12:01 PM

David Cameron hailed the Paralympic Games as a ceremonial cauldron was lit in London’s Trafalgar Square to launch the torch relay today.

The Prime Minister watched as Claire Lomas, who became the first person to complete a marathon in a bionic suit, lit the cauldron.

London mayor Boris Johnson and London 2012 chair Seb Coe were also at the ceremony, which took place on the north terrace of the square outside the National Gallery.

Speaking in Trafalgar Square, Mr Cameron said: “The Olympic Games made our country proud. I believe these Paralympic Games will make our country prouder still.

“Already this is shaping up to be the best, the biggest, the most incredible Paralympic Games ever.

“We are going to show the whole world that when it comes to putting on a show, there is no country like Britain and no city like London.”

Ms Lomas, who was left paralysed from the chest-down after a horse-riding accident, said: “It was amazing. I felt very proud and honoured to be asked to take part today.

“It was actually quite nerve-wracking. I was shaking before I went on but it went smoothly.”

The flame is visiting a number of London’s most famous landmarks today as the capital gears up for the start of the Games on August 29.