Paralympic Athletes Arrive In UK

22 August 2012, 11:57 | Updated: 22 August 2012, 12:09

Thousands of Paralympic competitors are flying into London, as the first of the Games Lanes comes into force.

It will be the busiest day for Paralympic arrivals at Heathrow airport.

Along with the athletes, British Airways is also transporting around 300 wheelchairs and sporting equipment such as firearms, weapon bags and physiotherapist cases.

Meanwhile, the first of the Games Lanes is back in operation between junctions 3 and 2 on the M4. It will be used by VIPs travelling from Heathrow into central London.

London Mayor Boris Johnson said: "The Paralympic Games are shaping up to be the best ever as London continues to buzz with Olympic excitement, and Paralympic tickets are selling like hot cakes."

The Paralympic Games start on August 29th and end on September 9th.