Golden glory for Menna in Korea
CALLS have been made for a permanent tribute to the town’s record breaking golden girl Menna Fitzpatrick.
Nineteen- year- o l d Menna, from Tytherington, has become the most decorated British winter Paralympian of all time after winning four medals at the winter games, taking gold in the women’s slalom.
The former Fallibroome and Prestbury pupil, who has just five per cent vision, added gold to the two silvers and a bronze she claimed last week.
And after post boxes were painted gold to honour the British gold medal winners at the 2012 Summer Olympics and 2012 Summer Paralympics, calls have been made for a similar recognition for the record breaking sports star.
David Capener, headteacher at Prestbury Primary School, where Menna was a student, said: “After the 2012 Olympics we had the gold postboxes for those who achieved Gold, it would be wonderful to have a permanent feature in Macclesfield to celebrate and commemorate such an incredible achievement.
“We have also been so impressed with Menna’s resilience and perseverance; after the initial fall, she went from Bronze to two silvers and then the incredible Gold.”
And Macclesfield Town Council say they are hoping to recognise the youngster’s efforts, with the possibility of permanent tribute.
A spokesperson for the council said: “Macclesfield Council is so proud of Menna for such great achievements in Pyeongchang.
“To have another Gold medallist from Macclesfield is something we should all celebrate and we are keen to formally recognise Menna’s success on behalf of Macclesfield.
“Hopefully we will be in touch with Menna very soon to finalise some details.”
Macclesfield MP, David Rutley, also supports any move for a permanent tribute.
He said: “Menna’s achievements at the Winter Paralympic in South Korea are impressive and inspiring.
“Being Britain’s most decorated Winter Paralympian at the age of just 19 is a testament to her dedication and hard work.
“It would be great to find a way of recognising Menna’s achievements.
“I am writing to Cheshire East Council and am also keen to meet with other local groups to see how this can best be taken forward.”
Menna, who skies with the help of guide Jen Kehoe, was given the honour of leading Team GB in the closing ceremony at the games.
A spokesperson for Royal Mail said it has no plans to repaint post boxes to honour this year’s medal winners.