A PARALYMPIAN gold medallist based in Foulridge has been congratulated for his sporting success.

Gregg Stevenson, who won his first gold at this year's Paris Paralympics after a mixed double sculls final on Sunday, was celebrated by Pendle Borough Council.

The rower, who won his gold medal alongside race partner Lauren Rowles, lost his legs in an explosion in Afghanistan while serving as a Royal Engineer Commando 15 years ago.

Councillor Asjad Mahmood, leader of Pendle Borough Council, said: "On behalf of everyone at Pendle Borough Council, we would like to say, ‘well done and many congratulations!’

"This is fantastic news – not only for Gregg, but for his home town as well.

"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."

Pendle Borough Council’s armed forces champion and Foulridge councillor, Kevin Salter, added: "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."

Foulridge Parish Councillors are planning an event to honour Mr Stevenson's accomplishment.