The first regional exhibition of Paralympic Heritage

The National Paralympic Heritage Trust, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, presented its first regional exhibition at Norwich Cathedral between March and May 2018.

From the range of displays, memorabilia and art, over 7000 visitors learnt about local and national Paralympians and their contribution to Paralympic heritage. Visitors found out how it all began with the inspirational story of Professor Sir Ludwig Guttmann. Particular events, focusing on schools and families, celebrated personal achievements and diversity, with objects like the Cheetah running blades from Össur and early medals sparking many interesting conversations. 50% of visitors who completed our feedback survey felt that the exhibition had challenged their thoughts and perceptions about disability,

The stories are so compelling you realise how driven people are to achieve their best.

If you would like to read the engaging Paralympic Heritage stories collected from our Norfolk exhibition which include those from disability sports coaches, players and volunteers, follow the links below.

• Boccia Coach, Roy McGee
• Disability tennis in Norfolk
• Film maker, Ella Glendining
• Ice Sledge Hockey Player, Naomi Adie
• Interview with Nick Webborn, Chair of the BPA
• Paralympic cyclist, Iain Dawson
• Paralympic field athlete, Danny Nobbs
• Volunteer at 2012, Colin Coates

Vicky Hope-Walker's radio interview with Future Radio about the exhibition can be listened to here

Ellen Vanlint of Active Norfolk said,

It's fantastic to be able to showcase some of the fascinating Paralympic Heritage our area has to offer. The history and the amazing stories are really inspiring, and we are keen to use these to link in to all the current inclusive sporting opportunities in the County.

Ella Glendining created this inspiring film, "Born" for the exhibition, which featured disability stories from Paralympian athlete Danny Nobbs and Para cyclist, Iain Dawson and excerpts from the performance group, Total Ensemble. For more information on Ella you can read her story here

Family Fun Day 'Incredible Me'

The NPHT Team had a great day with all of the families at 'Incredible Me' Day, filled with crafts and activities celebrating diversity. Thank you to Iain Dawson, Sydney 2000 Paralympian for sharing his story and bringing along his racing tandem.

Celebrating Diversity Day

Visitors to Diversity Day at Norwich Cathedral enjoyed having a go at disability sports including; Unigolf, Boccia, Sledge Hockey and Goalball with help from Sportspark UEA, Active Norfolk and Norfolk Boccia. The Dean tried her hand at sledge hockey under the careful supervision of Naomi Adie from the Peterborough Phantoms Para Ice Hockey Club.

Partners included:

The Heritage Lottery Fund, Spirit of 2012, Norwich Cathedral, Jarrold, Norfolk Community Foundation, Active Norfolk and Norfolk Museum Service.

Please continue to share your stories and follow us on twitter and facebook using #paraheritagestories

Images courtesy of: Norwich Cathedral exhibition launch, David Kirkham at Fisheye Images. Norwich Cathedral exterior, Paul Hurst.