Paralympian to visit teens (From Borehamwood Times)

Former QPR player Alistair Patrick-Heselton to visit Friday Night Project in Borehamwood, Meadow Park

8:10am Sunday 7th October 2012 in News By Anna Slater

A Paralympian who was almost killed in a car crash will be coming to Borehamwood next month.

Alistair Patrick-Heselton, who played football for Team GB during the Games, will be sharing his experiences with teens in Meadow Park, Broughinge Road.

The 29-year-old will be speaking the Friday Night Project, a free skateboarding, BMX and football club for children aged 11 to 19.

He said: “As an athlete who has competed at the highest level, I hope I can use my experiences to provide inspiration to children in Borehamwood and encourage them into sport.”

The former Queens Park Rangers player proved doctors wrong after they told him he would never be able to play football again after the crash.

His visits have been arranged though the Lottery legacy programme Sportivate, which encourages greater participation in sport among young people.

Councillor Brenda Batten, portfolio holder for culture, leisure and health, said: “We are really fortunate to be able to welcome Alistair to Borehamwood.

“He truly represents the Paralympics value of courage, determination, inspiration and equality and I hope that by spending time with him our youngsters will see there is nothing they cannot do if they put their minds to it”.

Mr Patrick-Heselton will be at the Friday Night Project, supported by Child UK, from 8.15pm on October 26, November 23 and December 14 at Meadow Park, Broughinge Road. Entry is free and no booking is required.