THE Tavistock Specials left West Devon at 5am on Sunday morning to see footballer finals of the London 2012 Paralympics.

Allen Lewis, from the Specials, said: 'The games are where people with all sorts of physical disabilities overcome their physical handicaps to become world class athletes — they are and inspiration to everyone!

'The cerebral palsy football gold, silver and bronze playoffs were fantastic and I know these guys could never play at this level in mainstream fooball but what quality football it was!'

'Russia overcame the Ukraine in a hard fought final in front of 30,000 people who cheered and enjoyed the occasion. Mexican waves all round and our Tavi Specials were buzzing with excitement — it was brilliant.'

Allan thanked Devon County Council's Aiming High grant which funded three trips to London and also praised the care and professionalism of Holmans coaches drivers.

Allan added: 'It was an amazing experience for all of our club and I hope that one day we have a chance to put forward a footballer to play for Team GB.'