Ellie Simmonds is proud to be flying the flag

Swimming sensation Ellie Simmonds today revealed her London 2012 dreams and said she was proud to be flying the Olympic flag for the region.

The 17-year-old from Aldridge, who became an MBE in 2009, said she was keeping her fingers crossed for the competition.

Although her tough training schedule means she will not be in Walsall when the Olympic torch passes through on June 30, she wished the people of the borough a fantastic day.

The swimmer booked herself a place at the London 2012 Paralympics after taking gold in a qualifying championship.

Ellie bagged two gold medals in the 2008 Paralympic Games, setting a new world record in the 400m freestyle. The teenager said: "I come from Aldridge and I am proud to be flying the flag for Walsall at the Olympic Games this year again.

"I am really pleased to hear that the torch will be passing through the borough.

"Unfortunately, I will not be able to be in Walsall on the day as I am training in Germany but I hope all the residents in Walsall have a fantastic day."

The former Cooper & Jordan School pupil said she is keeping her fingers crossed for success at the competition. "I have been training hard in Swansea and I am absolutely thrilled to be part of the Paralympics team for the London 2012 Games," she said.

"Obviously it will be absolutely amazing if I manage to come home with a medal again but I am really happy to be taking part as well." Ellie, who recently passed her driving test, was named BBC young sports personality of the year in 2008 and became the youngest person to receive an MBE the following year.

Walsall has been chosen to be part of the Olympic Torch Relay on June 30, giving residents an opportunity to see the flame.