CUMBRIAN wheelchair racer Simon Lawson will help bring the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio to a close on today's final day of competition.

He is lining up alongside fellow Brit David Weir in the T52/53/54 men's marathon, which is scheduled to start at 4.30pm (UK time).

Simon, from Maryport, has the support of friends and family in Cumbria behind him.

Fundraising events were held to help Simon with equipment and other costs in his efforts to get to Rio before it was confirmed that he was selected for Paralympics GB.

Today Cumbria is getting behind Simon, who works as a mechanic at his parents' motorcycle shop in London Road, Carlisle.

Councillor Alan Smith, leader of Allerdale Council, is among those who will be cheering on Simon.

Alan, who has been welcoming hundreds to the new £11.3m sports centre in Workington this weekend, said: "I often pass Simon when he's training on the roads around Allonby and such like.

"My heart goes out to him today and we all hope he does well and brings a medal back to Cumbria. Good luck Simon!"

Simon will be looking to follow the example set by Newcastleton sprinter Libby Clegg in the past week. She has won two golds - in the 200 metres T11 category and the 100 metres final.

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