Hero’s homecoming for Jason

Mayor of Londonderry Kevin Campbell will be among those to welcome Jason home following his success in the Paralympic Games when he raced his way to 100m and 200m gold success.

Jason is expected to arrive in the village at around 3.30pm on Saturday where he will be greeted by the Mayor, members of the local City of Derry Spartan athletics club and local school children.

Paying tribute to Jason Smyth, the Mayor said he hoped the public would come out to show their appreciation for Jason and his wonderful achievements. He said he was delighted the Council was working in partnership with the Eglinton Community Forum to acknowledge Jason’s achievements.

“Jason Smyth is a truly remarkable athlete and sports personality and a real credit to his family and coach. It was very emotional watching him race during the Games and great to see the fantastic reception he received from the spectators.

“He is a great ambassador for sport and to young people across our city by the way he disciplined himself to train so intensively despite his degenerative eye condition. We are delighted to be part of his welcome home celebration and to formally acknowledge his achievements,” he said.

Jim Logue and Gerard O’Donnell, from the Eglinton Community Forum, who is organizing the homecoming event, said there is great excitement in the village ahead of the homecoming parade and welcome event.

“We are delighted to be welcoming Jason home. We have been following his career for years now and feel very proud of him. He is a great ambassador and a fantastic sports person and he deserves a homecoming to remember.

“We are delighted that the Council has come on board to provide us with financial assistance for this event and to have the Mayor attending to welcome him home. We hope to see hundreds of people from across the local area to come along to show their support and appreciation of Jason.”

The Mayor added that he also intends to organise a civic reception in Jason’s honour next week.