CORSHAM'S very own Paralympic swimmer Stephanie Millward has been named as the newest ambassador for MS Society.

The gold medallist, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at 17 after competing in the World School Games in Shanghai, said the role was an "incredible opportunity" to raise awareness of the condition.

She defied the odds and embarked on a 18-year journey to reach the top of the Paralympic podium after he neurologist told her she would never swim again.

"Being named an MS Society ambassador is incredible," Mrs Millward said.

"I am really thankful for the opportunity. It is amazing to think that I could play a part in helping the MS community.

"MS is totally unpredictable and different for everyone, but I hope I can inspire and motivate other people with the condition to keep on fighting."

The organisation, which funds research and helps raise awareness, also named Paralympic sprinter and cyclist Kadeena Cox, who was diagnosed with MS two years ago after experiencing burning sensations in her right arm, as an ambassador.

She said: "It is awesome to be named an MS Society ambassador. The MS Society helped me so much when I was first diagnosed with MS; they gave me all the information I needed and were incredibly supportive.

"It is an amazing opportunity to support their work and represent a community of more than 100,000 people living with MS."

People typically experience the symptoms of MS in their 20s or 30s and although it is painful and affects daily life, it is often unpredictable and different for everyone.

Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of the MS Society, said: "We are honoured to announce Stephanie and Kadeena as new our ambassadors.

"As Paralympians and as members of the MS community, they have devoted their time and energy to raising awareness of the condition and we’re grateful for their ongoing commitment to helping us stop MS.

"As MS Society Ambassadors, they’ll help us drive research into more – and better – treatments, spread the word about our work, galvanise public support for our campaigns and help tell the stories of more than 100,000 people living with MS in the UK to achieve greater understanding of the condition."

For more information about MS Society visit www.mssociety.org.uk