Boccia is a Paralympic sport similar to bowls that is practised by many different countries. It is a really gripping sport played in just under ten minutes and can be played by people of all abilities.

Archie Eaton, a sixth form student at John Kyrle has been playing Boccia for eight years, winning 4 medals since 2015 (1 gold, 1 silver and 2 Bronze).

Archie said: “My first experience of Boccia was with Forest Pulse, a charity that runs events and sessions for people like me. I then joined a local Boccia club, getting to go and watch the Paralympics in London in the process!

“I eventually ended up running the club. I also go to the Cotswold Crusaders Boccia Club in Cheltenham where I have been a member for four years as well as the Gloucester Gladiators Academy which is on the Boccia England Talent Pathway and once my classification is made international, I will be eligible to go on to join the England Team have also participated in the BE Cup this year (Nationals Tournament) where I am currently 4th in the country and after winning a bronze I have qualified for the Finals in May.”See this week’s paper for more stories like this, available in shops and as a Digital Edition now.