ALTRINCHAM'S John Stubbs is one of two Paralympians chosen as Team GB's flagbearers for the opening ceremony of Tokyo 2020.

Stubbs, who is from Altrincham but now lives in North Wales, was chosen alongside five-time gold medallist swimmer Ellie Simmonds.

The archer won a gold medal of his own at Beijing 2008, as well as a silver medal at Rio 2016.

And at the age of 56, he is also the oldest member of Team GB going to this year's Paralympics.

He said he was emotional at the news, especially as he lost his 'biggest fan' in his dad in January.

He said: "I felt incredibly emotional when I was told the news.

"For any elite athlete to go to the Games and be bestowed this honour is a privilege.

"Words cannot describe what it means to me.

"It has been a torrid year - unfortunately I lost my dad in January.

"He was my biggest fan, and hopefully if he is looking down on me, he is there saying: 'Do it for the Stubbs family, John, you've earned it and you deserve it'.

"I know my family will be as proud as punch."

It has been an extraordinary journey for Stubbs, whose right leg was amputated after a motorbike accident at the age of 24.

He was knocked off his bike by one car, then run over by another.

He tried to take his own life in rehabilitation.

Trafford Council posted on Twitter on Monday in recognition of his latest achievement.

They tweeted: "We're so proud of our kid John Stubbs from Altrincham who has been named as a flagbearer in tomorrow's Paralympics Opening Ceremony!

"From Trafford to Tokyo, we're wishing John and the GB team all the best of luck and success at the Games!"

The opening ceremony of Tokyo 2020 is tomorrow at midday, before 12 days of action start on Wednesday.