Taunton Council backs Paralympic parade proposals

Taunton Deane Councillors have backed plans to celebrate the success of local Paralympians Deb Criddle and Lucy Shuker.

Although details have not been finalised, many residents and councillors are keen for a parade to be held in the Town Centre to honour their spectacular sporting achievements.

Simon Coles, Taunton Deane Councillor, said: "I think it is an absolutely brilliant idea and we should definitely celebrate the success of these inspirational sports heroes.

"We should revel their achievement just as others across the UK have done."

Taunton Paralympian dressage star Deb Criddle picked up a gold and two silvers for England and said she was pleased that the council have backed these proposals.

Recently a post box in Trull, Debbie's home village, was painted gold in her honour.

Simon Coles added: "We definitely need to do something that all the communities and villages in and around Taunton can get involved in.

That could be a parade but it hasn't be officially decided yet.

"I think it will show our local sports heroes how much we in Taunton appreciate them and that they are supported by the vast majority of local people.

"We would like to get schools, colleges and sports organisations all over Taunton involved in the celebration because we have a rich sporting community here.

"It would give Taunton children a chance to really see what these people have achieved, and what they could achieve if they put their best into it."

Last Monday the London Victory Parade held where thousands lined the streets in celebration of our Olympic and Paralympic heroes.