The 33-year-old wheelchair racer from London produced a stunning display at the Paralympic Games this summer as he claimed four gold medals in the T54 800 metres 1500m, 5,000 metres and marathon marathon to add to the two gold medals he won at Beijing 2008.

The ancient honour dates back to the 13th century and Weir joins an illustrious list featuring the likes of singer Annie Lennox, television and radio personality Sir Terry Wogan and author JK Rowling.

It comes as a new initiative of grants to widen sporting opportunities for disabled people is launched called the City Sporting Chance grants programme.

The project has been launched by the City Bridge Trust, who is the charity of the City of London Corporation.

They say that Weir's honour is designed to coincide with the launch of the programme.

"As the UK cheered on athletes such as David Weir, thousands of disabled people were inspired to get involved with their local sports club," said the City Bridge Trust chairman Billy Dove.

"Our new 'City Sporting Chance' will provide organisations with the resources they need to widen access to sport for those who may not have had the opportunity to take part before.

"We hope this will create a lasting legacy for sports opportunities for disabled people that extend well beyond this golden sporting year."


Weir has also won a record equalling six London Marathon titles, the most recent of which came in April.

Despite suggesting that he may retire following London 2012, Weir has hinted that he may carry on to Rio 2016, although he has made no final decision on the issue.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related stories
November 2012: David Weir to have stadium named after him to honour London 2012 achievements