McKillop facing financial hurdle

The 22-year-old was celebrated across the world for his recording breaking runs in London, taking two gold medals. He was also awarded the unique honour of the male athlete who most embodied the Parlympic spirit for his work promoting the Games.

However, just weeks after he took the adulation of 80,000 screaming fans he is faced with the possibility of having to look for a job to support himself.

Michael’s father Paddy said the champion had so far received no offers of commercial sponsorship following his incredible feats in London.

He said his son was “getting by” and was relying on a dwindling amount of funding from sports funding bodies.

“He’s a double gold medallist and a double world record holder, I would have thought the world of business would have been interested in those achievements,” said Paddy.

“He gets by living at home and on the funding he has received, he has no income as such.

“To reach his achievements takes a lot of time and energy. Michael may have to look for a part-time job in the new year.”

Michael, who suffers cerebral palsy, won gold in the T37 class 800m race in London, repeating his success from Beijing four years earlier. He also took the title in the T37 1,500m race in London.

Following his tremendous record-breaking achievements Michael was given a rousing reception during a bus tour around the borough and was honoured at a special dinner in Mossley Mill.