SOUTHEND shot-putting star Robin Womack could not hide his delight after being selected in the Great Britain squad for the forthcoming Paralympics.

The 41-year-old wheelchair athlete had his place for the London Games officially confirmed yesterday.

And, having just missed out on going to the last Games in Beijing four years ago, Womack was left ‘buzzing’ by the call up.

“I’m just absolutely delighted and I’m still buzzing about getting picked for the Paralympics,” said Womack.

“Being a Southend United fan I’m used to the ups and downs of sport and my own career has been a bit like that.

“Four years ago I was gutted to be left out of the squad going to Beijing but I’m a firm believer of you get out what you put in.

“If you work hard enough then you get the rewards and I have worked myself in to the ground since missing out on Beijing and that’s why I’ve been picked this time.”

But selection alone is now not enough to satisfy Womack and he has already set his sights on producing a good performance at the Games.

“I’ve put myself under a bit of pressure and I’ve been picked because selectors think I have a chance of getting a medal,” said Womack.

“That’s now my aim and it’s important to get the preparation right.

“I will be doing some training for a couple of weeks and I’m just so excited about it all.

“Being in London makes it extra special and I will definitely be getting the crowd going because I feed off that atmosphere.”

Womack will be heading to the team’s holding camp in Portgual before the Games begin.

But, up until then, he will continue to train at the Excel Gym in Eastwood.

FULL STORY IN WEDNESDAY'S ECHO