Paralympic flag is raised above Downing Street

David Cameron predicted today that the dedication and persistence of Britain's Paralympians was about to pay off as the official flag of the 2012 Games was raised in Downing Street.

The Prime Minister wished UK competitors luck and vowed to cheer them on at the biggest Paralympics yet, which opens on August 29.

Officially called the Agitos, the Paralympic symbol replaces the Olympic rings that have been flying over Number 10.

Mr Cameron said: "I would like to congratulate all of Britain's athletes selected for ParalympicsGB.

"This is a huge achievement and the result of years of training and hard work, but all that dedication and persistence is about to pay off.

"The Paralympic Games began in Britain and our continued commitment to them is clear as we approach the start of the biggest Paralympic Games yet - with more countries, more athletes and more spectators than ever before.

"2012 is set to be a fantastic celebration of world-class sport and it is also an incredible opportunity for ParalympicsGB to inspire many others to be the best they can be.

"I would like to wish everyone on ParalympicsGB the best of luck for the Games, I will be cheering them on all the way and I know the whole country will be too."

PA