The quadruple Paralympic gold medallist will go to the event, which runs from May 22 to 26 at the Manchester Regional Arena, as a key part of the 100 metres and 200m runner's preparations for London.

"I've been waiting a long time for 2012 to come around and I'm so excited it's now here," Pistorius said.

"The Olympics and Paralympics will be the pinnacle in many athletes' careers and I'm determined to make it a year I'll never forget.

"The BT Paralympic World Cup is always an essential step in my competition calendar and this year it will be more important than ever.

"I always love competing at the event as it kick starts my summer season and provides me with immaculate foundations to progress through the summer with.

"I can't over emphasise the importance of competing in the UK just months before the Olympics and Paralympics arrive in London.

"While I've competed in the UK many times, and in many ways consider it my second home, it will be hugely advantageous to get some race experience there in the run up to London 2012, particularly in such a strong event."

Pistorius harbours hopes of becoming the first amputee sprinter to compete at an Olympic Games after participating in the IAAF World Athletics Championships in Daegu last year.

It will be the eighth consecutive year that Manchester has hosted the event, which includes wheelchair basketball, athletics, boccia and sitting volleyball.

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