A decorated athlete has been invited to attend the Coronation of King Charles III this weekend.

Kiera Byland, who was honoured with a British Empire Medal, competed in the Special Olympics, winning six gold medals for cycling at the 2015 and 2019 Special Olympics World Games.

Kiera has Rubinstein Taybi syndrome, dyspraxia and some autistic traits.

The 25-year-old from Bromley Cross is primarily a cyclist but has also competed in swimming and horse riding.

She is a level two cycling coach and works in primary schools in Bolton encouraging as many people as possible to ride a bike.

The Bolton News: HRH King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla, visit Bolton Town Hall to mark the buildings' 150th anniversary. Picture by Paul Heyes, Friday January 20, 2023..

In 2021 she was given a British Empire Medal for her services to sport.

Kiera was working when the King visited Bolton earlier this year so was unable to see him on that occasion so was extra delighted to get another chance.

She said: “I was very surprised and shocked because I did not think I would get this chance.

“I thought I would be watching it like everybody else on TV.

“It will be making history even though you are there.

“It is also an opportunity to show everyone even though you have a disability you can still succeed.

“If you still try you can be the best you can be, it is a great example.

“The children I work with at school are also really excited and the teachers are also using me as an example, if you keep trying even if you find things difficult you can still succeed.

“I was working when the King came to Bolton, but it will be great to see him.

“It will be very special to be there.”

Mother Jacqui Byland will also be in attendance with her and was delighted to have been invited.

She said: “It will be quite an experience in my lifetime and I expect in Kiera’s.

“I think it is important that young disabled people can be seen and should be seen.”