Paralympian honours backlash

Leading Paralympians have criticised what they believe to be inconsistencies in the New Years Honours list, where successful Paralympians missed out on top honours, reports the Independent on Sunday.

Ten time gold medal dressage rider Lee Pearson OBE told the newspaper that he was "disappointed" not to get a knighthood after his performance this summer, adding: "It's the discrepancy that pisses me off."

He said: "Obviously, 10 gold, one silver and one bronze just isn't enough. I'm disappointed because I do feel I've given a lot to Paralympic sport and equestrianism. I think 10 gold medals is quite an achievement."

Olympic star Mo Farah said he was "blown away" at being made a CBE, but admits that missing out on a top spot in the BBC's Sports Personality of the Year was "difficult to get my head around".

The double gold medallist was rewarded for his Olympic efforts in the New Year Honours list, announced yesterday.

In an interview with The Sun on Sunday, he said: "I'm blown away. I'm honoured.

"For me 2012 is done and it's time to look ahead. But I'll never forget what everyone in Team GB achieved."

Paralympic swimmer Ellie Simmonds has tweeted that she is 'honoured' to receive an OBE:

Paralympic sprinter Jonnie Peacock has joined calls by Sam Ruddock that six-time Paralympic gold medallist David Weir should have received a knighthood rather than an CBE on this year's honours list.

Click here to read Sam Ruddock's comments.

Click here to read David Weir's comments on why Paralympians have to work harder for recognition that other athletes.

Paralympic gold medallist Josef Craig has described 2012 as "the best year of my life".

The 15-year-old swimmer, from South Shields, is among those recognised in the New Year Honours list. He has been awarded an MBE for services to Paralympic Sport.

He said: "I'm really proud of everything that's happened and I feel really honoured that I've been part of such a big part of the year.

"An MBE is one of the greatest honours a person can be bestowed on them. For me to be even considered to have one, I feel utterly privileged and honoured."

Craig hit the headlines in the summer when he won Paralympic gold and broke the world record in the Men's 400 freestyle event at London 2012.

Paralympic sprinter Sam Ruddock suggested six-time Paralympic gold medallist David Weir should have received a knighthood rather than an CBE on this year's honours list.

He wrote on Twitter:

It follows Weir's comments that Paralympic athletes have to work harder than their Olympic counterparts to receive recognition.

Olympic gold medallists Ed McKeever and Alistair Brownlee have taken to Twitter after receiving MBEs in the honours list:

Former rugby international JJ Williams told ITV Wales he is 'absolutely thrilled' to be awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours list, admitting: 'I thought it had passed me by.'

The former Wales winger said he'd told his family the news after they'd enjoyed a Christmas lunch together.