**Wheelchair curler Michael McCreadie will carry the British flag in Friday’s opening ceremony to start the 10th Winter Paralympics in Vancouver.**Over 500 athletes from 44 countries will bid for medals in five events.
Team GB comprises 12 athletes - in curling and skiing - and McCreadie, 64 next week, takes part in his seventh Paralympics, with two as a coach.
“I am totally shocked that I am holding the flag to represent all the skiers, curlers and support staff,” he said.
“Some things you can’t put into words. It will probably hit me as the team comes out onto the track at the presentation at the opening ceremony.”
“Just follow your dreams, you have all done all you can to prepare”
Olympic champion Amy Williams’ message to Team GB
The opening ceremony starts at 0200 GMT on Saturday, with the action beginning the following day.
McCreadie is one of three curlers returning from the team that won Paralympic silver four years ago in Turin.
His team, and skier Sean Rose represent Britain’s best chance of medals.
The curlers begin their round-robin series on Saturday against the hosts and defending champions Canada.
The final takes place on 20 March, the penultimate day of the Games.
Cambridgeshire-based Rose, 38, will compete in all five Alpine skiing events but the downhill - his best event - is on Saturday.
Olympic gold medallist Amy Williams sent a message of support to the British team.
“I just want to wish you all the best of luck and I know you have all worked really hard to be there,” said the skeleton athlete.
“Just follow your dreams, you have all done all you can to prepare. So take a deep breath at the start of your race and just enjoy it.”