Paralympics 'patronising to disabled people'

Less than a quarter of disabled people, and just 11 per cent of Britons overall are excited about the Paralympics, a poll has shown. Apathy towards the Games is rife, according to a ComRes poll for disability charity Scope, while 22 per cent of people believe it is patronising to disabled people, and 20 per cent think it makes them appear second class.

Alice Maynard, chairwoman of Scope, said: "Changing attitudes is about visibility and increased familiarity in everyday life. The challenge for London 2012 is to make sure disabled people are involved not just on track and field but throughout the Games and the celebrations before and afterwards."