Clarke will start in his new position on 13 March,

"I am thrilled to be appointed as Chief Executive of the British Paralympic Association, an organisation that is close to my heart.

"It is an honour to join at such an exciting time, as we build momentum towards Paris 2024 and strive to deliver greater social impact to challenge perceptions and break down barriers for all disabled people in the UK," Clarke said.

"My experience as a Paralympian has shown me the unique power sport can have to change attitudes and to boost physical and mental wellbeing for everybody."

The blind football star scored 128 goals in 144 appearances for his country and competed at Beijing 2008 and London 2012.

He also took part in the goalball event at Atalanta 1996.

The 52-year-old passed the Olympic Torch to Margaret Maughan, Britain's first ever Paralympic gold medal winner, during London 2012.

With 24 years of experience in the banking industry, Clarke also was the chief operating officer of the Royal National Institute of Blind People.

He has served as the chair of the BPA Athletes' Commission for two terms and for six years on the Board, including being the current vice-chair.

As vice-chair, he also played a crucial role in BPA's 10-year strategic plan, Championing Change.

"Dave brings a superb range of experience in sport, business and the charitable sector to the British Paralympic Association as we aspire to have even greater impact not only in continued excellence during Summer and Winter Paralympics Games but also on wider society," Nick Webborn, chair of the BPA, said.

"He knows the organisation so well and will hit the ground running.

"It is also a clear statement of intent from the BPA to lead from the front in inclusion and diversity, with disabled people appointed to leadership positions on merit."

"I would also like to thank Mike Sharrock for his tireless work as CEO as he has steered the organisation through some of the most challenging times in its history with the Covid-19 impacted Tokyo 2020 and Beijing 2022 Paralympic Games.

"He has left us well placed to continue to inspire a better world for disabled people."