The nine-time British Paralympic swimming gold medallist came to Optua in Claydon, near Ipswich, where he was briefed on the Suffolk Disability Sport Academy. 

The Academy was launched as a direct response to the London 2012 Paralympic Games to promote and support the development of disability sport within the county. 

During the visit, Holmes spent time with a number of people who have been involved with, or benefited from, the project including Colin Poole, the chief executive of Optua.

Holmes also met up with Suffolk County Council Sportsaid Scholarship recipient and world junior powerlifting Champion Zoe Newson from East Bergholt.

The 18-year-old put Holmes through his paces by spotting him as he bench-pressed some weights at the venue.

During the day, Holmes visited Water Lane Leisure Centre in Lowestoft where he met a number of Suffolk’s Paralympic hopefuls and shared his experiences as one of Great Britain’s most successful Paralympic swimmers.

Among those attending in Lowestoft were Suffolk County Council Sportsaid Scholarship recipient Stephanie Bird, a Paralympic swimmer currently ranked number one in Europe at backstroke.  

For 95 students from the Ashley School in Lowestoft, the highlight of the day was the unveiling of their artwork by Holmes.

Forming part of the audience at Water Lane Leisure Centre, the students saw Holmes officially launch the mosaic which they created and constructed together with local volunteers and Kevin Whitney, the first official artist of the British Olympic Association. 

Rosemary Clarke, Suffolk County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Sport, Culture, Diversity, Health and Wellbeing, said: "I am extremely impressed with the hard work of everyone involved with producing this artwork. 

"The mosaic demonstrates their enthusiasm to be part of London 2012 and will remind local people what the Olympic and Paralympic Games is all about - working together for a lasting legacy."

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related stories
July 2010: Suffolk charity awarded London 2012 Inspire Mark
July 2010: Optua to host showcase event for London 2012 Open Weekend