Harlow para-athlete thanks foster carers after Paris invite

Bebe Jackson, 18, was born with club foot, but has become a leading global talent in multiple track and field events.

She will be attending the French capital games as part of the ParalympicsGB Paralympic Inspiration Programme from September 4 to September 7.

(Image: Peter Milson Photography.)

Ms Jackson was fostered by Mick and Pauline Davis, who she affectionately refers to as 'nanna and grandad'.

She said: "I have a really close and special relationship with Mick and Pauline.

"They're my family, but Mick really believed in me.

"I think he saw something in me and just wanted me to enjoy the sport I had once loved, which he did.

"He helped me become classified as a disabled athlete in Year 9.

"It's been a journey ever since.

"I’m just so glad I got back into it with so much support.

"Mick and Pauline have taken me everywhere and done everything for me.

"They’re just amazing.

"I want to make them proud of me."

(Image: Peter Milson Photography.)

Ms Jackson is seen as a potential medal contender for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics.

She explained: "I’m going to Paris, to learn as much as I can.

"It’s going to be so cool, and my hotel is right next to the Eiffel Tower!"

The young star athlete made history last year by becoming Team England's first-ever medallist at the Commonwealth Youth Games, winning silver in the discus F42-44/F61-64 in Trinidad and Tobago.

She was also England’s flagbearer at the opening ceremony.

Ms Jackson is the current European record-holder in the T44 long jump for all ages.

She is also ranked eighth in the world in the 200m and 12th in the 100m, both for her age group.

One of her inspirations, Mr Davies, said: "With all the problems Bebe has had in her life, we are extremely proud of the athlete and young lady she has become".

Away from the track, Ms Jackson plans to study towards a degree in nursing at the University of East London following her A-level results.