Medal heroes back home

Paralympian Ricky Balshaw, left, shows off his silver medal with his horse George. Right, Mickey Bushell is given a hero’s welcome by his dad Pete at Heathrow.

Shropshire’s Paralympic heroes were back home today after scoring silver medals at the Beijing Games.

Telford’s Mickey Bushell, who won a silver medal in the 100 metre race, later received a hero’s welcome from Telford College of Arts and Technology, where he studies.

Ricky Balshaw, from Shawbirch, Telford, was relaxing at home and catching up on sleep after scooping silver in the equestrian freestyle.

But the 21-year-old, who already has his sights set firmly on London 2012, is planning to have only one week off before getting stuck into training again.

Ricky, who has cerebral palsy, said it had been a dream come true to become a paralympic medallist riding with his horse Deacons Giorgi, who he calls George.

He returned home last night after a 10-hour flight, and treated himself to a fish and chip supper which had been craving while he was away.

Ricky is planning to celebrate his victory tomorrow with friends and family at home.

“When I got the silver, everyone went mad,” he said. ”

Everyone rushed over and they were hugging me and kissing me. I don’t know what I was thinking when I realised, I was over the moon.

“It was awesome to be part of the Beijing team over there.”

Ricky, who started riding at the age of four, said training will soon get under way for 2012 where he will be riding a new horse, Uriel.

The former Thomas Telford pupil, who works part time as a hotel receptionist, said: “For London 2012, I want to better this medal - I want to get a gold. I love competing.

“It’s mad to be home,” he added. “The adrenaline has worn off - I’d been running on empty for the past week. I need some sleep.”

His mother Julie said: “He worked really really hard. I’m so proud of him.”

Trainer Joss Edwards, who has worked with Ricky for two years, said: “It’s just such a huge honour and privilege to be involved with Ricky and George.”

Meanwhile, staff and students at TCAT have all been celebrating Mickey’s win.

Colin Walker, director of leisure, business and professional studies, said: “Mickey’s determination and general attitude to life was all captured in the 14.86 seconds it took him to secure an Olympic silver medal.”

See also - Hero’s welcome for silver racer