Lee Pearson chosen to carry Paralympic flag in Rio

Lee Pearson is one of the team’s most decorated and experienced athletes. Credit: onEdition/ParalympicsGB

Paralympian Lee Pearson has been chosen to carry the flag for Britain at the opening ceremony in Rio on Wednesday.

He was nominated for the honour by his fellow athletes from the 19 sports that make up the ParalympicsGB team.

Pearson is one of the team’s most decorated and experienced athletes.

He has won 12 Paralympic medals including 10 gold since he made his debut at Sydney 2000 in Para-equestrianism.

This is despite him being allergic to horses.

Pearson said being voted as flagbearer was a "massive honour" and he "can't wait" to lead out the ParalympicsGB team in Rio.

The Paralympic Games open in Rio on Wednesday September 7th. Credit: onEdition/ParalympicsGB

Penny Briscoe, ParalympicsGB Chef de Mission, said: "Lee has been a cornerstone of our equestrian team since he first made his debut in Sydney and has played a key role in establishing Great Britain as a leading Paralympic nation in the sport.

"I was delighted to inform him that he has been chosen, with the backing of his peers in Rio".

The Paralympic Games open on Wednesday September 7 and run until Sunday September 18.