The talent search – supported by Cadbury – took place at University College Dublin's (UCD) sports centre and came after Ireland picked up 16 medals at the Paralympics, eight of which were gold, finishing 19th on the final London 2012 medal table.

A total of 18 Summer Paralympic sports were on display for participants to try out.

Liam Harbison, the chief executive of Paralympics Ireland, said the search is hugely important in ensuring a successful Paralympic future for the country – from grassroots to elite level.

Liam Harbison, the chief executive of Paralympics Ireland, feels that talent searches will ensure a successful Paralympic future for the country from grassroots to elite level

"Our hope from the day is that people with a disability with an interest in sport might be inspired to develop their own athletic ability, perhaps get involved in sports clubs at local level, or even to go on and start the journey towards becoming part of a Paralympic squad of the future," said Harbison, who was also Chef de Mission of the successful Irish team at the London 2012 Paralympics.

The event saw some of Ireland's top Paralympic stars in attendance, including handcyclist Mark Rohan, who claimed two golds for Ireland at this summer's Paralympic Games in the H1 time trial and road race.

"It's great to think that the team's success in London will inspire others with a disability to try Paralympic sport," he said.

"Given the level of raw talent on show today, I've no doubt we will be seeing some of the new faces from today's event at the Paralympic Games in Rio 2016."

Mark Rohan (front) in action at the London 2012 Paralympics

Rohan's Paralympics Ireland teammate Catherine Walsh, who won a silver and a bronze in cycling at London 2012 in the individual pursuit and time trial respectively, also gave the event a glowing endorsement.

"As an athlete who has competed at six Paralympic Games, it's fantastic that we're already on the lookout for future talent," said Walsh, who is a Cadbury Athlete Ambassador.

"Cadbury provided me with crucial personal support towards London 2012 and I'm thrilled that they are supporting the event."

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]