KEIRA Byland is off to Paris this week to compete in a prestigious international cycling event representing her country.

While that sounds very laudable, what makes 20 year-old Keira’s achievements particularly impressive is that she suffers from several learning disabilities which affect her movement and her reasoning.

Since she discovered sport at 12, Keira, from Bromley Cross, has won gold and silver medals in Special Olympics and other events, coaches youngsters and gives inspiring talks.

She is an amazing, modest ambassador for both sport and for what can be achieved against the odds. Bolton should definitely be proud of her.