WEE COUNTY Special Olympians made the community proud as they returned home with a haul of nine medals.

The Boccia team shone in Sheffield winning two golds, one silver and one bronze, while Clackmannanshire were also represented in the impressive football and swimming squads.

Tullibody's Barbara-Ann McGinn was a star performer alongside Darren Rooney in the pairs, as they bowled their way to first place.

She told the Advertiser: "I was a wee bit nervous the first time they gave me the medal but I'm happy.

"They had all different things down in Sheffield. There were all different teams, which was cool. It's better than doing nothing."

The athlete helps out at Hawkhill Community Centre in her spare time and is also a keen cook, taking classes once a week.

Her mum Wilma admitted Barbara-Ann hasn't always played boccia and took a slightly alternative route into the sport.

She said: "She used to do gymnastics with the Special Olympics but when it folded it was her coach who invited her along to see if she'd like it and she thoroughly enjoyed it.

"She was very happy when she won it. She called me and she was delighted. She didn't think she was going to get one so it was a complete surprise to her.

"She's been showing her medal to everybody. Our family was fair thrilled for her."

Graham Harvey, the Forth Valley Disability Sport team manager, was delighted with the region's performance at the Olympics and admitted it was a once in a lifetime experience for the teams.

He said: "It has been a fantastic competition and for many of the athletes it has been their first time away from home and competing in a national event.

"Everyone will be going home with memories they will never forget."