Foulridge rower Gregg Stevenson has won a gold medal at his first Paralympics.
He entered a thrilling mixed double sculls final with GB race partner Lauren Rowles in Paris on Sunday.
Gregg – who lost both his legs in an explosion in Afghanistan while serving as a royal engineer commando 15 years ago – and race partner Lauren, have added this Olympic glory to their world and European titles in an outstanding season, setting a series of world records in the process.
Pendle Borough Council has welcomed the “fantastic news” – not only for Gregg, but for his home town as well.
Leader Asjad Mahmood, said: “On behalf of everyone at Pendle Borough Council, we would like to say, ‘well done and many congratulations!’
“Gregg is another sporting hero to put Pendle on the map!
“This is an especially amazing achievement considering this was his Paralympic debut at the age of 39 and he and his racing partner have only been rowing together since January last year.”
Foulridge councillor, Kevin Salter, said: “Since I was first introduced to Gregg, I found him to be an unassuming young man who is held in high esteem amongst Pendle veterans of all ages and services.
“A fellow veteran said: ‘Gregg doesn’t just represent a gold medal, he’s a military veteran who fought for his country, became a double amputee and made an incredible come back from that to this amazing achievement.
“He is an inspiration to everyone and a role model for future generations,’ which I totally agree with.
“Foulridge parish councillors are planning an event to celebrate Gregg’s accomplishment and villagers are also calling for a permanent reminder to honour Gregg the veteran – and his gold medal.”
Image credit: imagecomms
