Paralympian athlete Tim Prendergast inspires Hackney youngsters

Paralympic Gold 800m athlete Tim Prendergast and BBC presenter Gabby Logan joined over 100 bright eyed young fans for a sports day on Hackney Marshes.

The Hackney Community Cup sports day brought young people together with a variety of sports activities including football, cricket, rounders and athletics.

Tim Prendergast began losing his sight aged eight, and within five years his vision had depleted by over 90 per cent.

Despite the troubles he experienced as he came to terms with his impairment, the New Zealander maintained a burning passion for sport and found real enjoyment in running.

Last Friday, he advised youngsters on athletics techniques and was on hand with support for those interested in perusing sports further.

Sabir Bham, the director of community organisation Salaam Peace, which organised the event with help from sports group GLL and Hackney Homes, said: “The reason for organising events such as this is to give the young people an opportunity to be united through sport.

“This event shows how we can all enjoy sport together regardless of our colour, background and post code.”

Filming also took place on August 23 for a new BBC show Inspire: The Olympic Journey.