The Macclesfield Express is enjoying its own Paralympic success after our merchandiser’s son won bronze in the sailing.

Sally-Ann Birrell, who has worked for the Express for 12 years, said it was one of the proudest moments of her life to see her son Niki, 26, standing on the Paralympic podium after winning the medal in the Skud two-person keelboat event.

She said: "I am unbelievably proud of him. I have been through every single emotion over the five days, I’ve cried, I’ve been happy – there have been times when I couldn’t watch – and willed him to win.

"It was very exciting because the lead kept changing, one minute the Australians were in the lead, then it was the Americans, then we won two races."

Niki and his Surrey crew mate Alexandra Rickham were hoping to snatch silver from the USA, but the last race of the competition was cancelled due to a lack of wind.

Sally-Ann, who lives in Knutsford with her partner Ross, added: "You don’t think you are ever going to watch you son win a Paralympic medal. I don’t think he’ll put his medal down.

"Niki was so grateful that he had the home support and his family and friends there."

Niki was diagnosed with cerebral palsy when he was two years old.

Sally-Ann, who is also mum to Christian, 23, added: "When you’re told your child’s got cerebral palsy you wonder how it will affect them, but they can achieve whatever they want in life through hard work and determination.

"All those people who lined the streets of London to cheer the Olympic and Paralympic teams were absolutely amazing and Niki will never forget it."