Paralympians return home: West Midlands athletes touch down back in the UK

The 21-year-old won the 200m medley with a new world record and took home a bronze medal in the 400m freestyle.

Members of the the Paralympics team were greeted by flag-waving fans at Heathrow Airport after their hugely successful Rio Games.

Ellie, from Aldridge, missed out on adding to her medal collection when she finished fourth in the S6 100m breaststroke final.

After landing, she said she was looking forward to 'chilling out' and 'eating nice food'.

"It's so nice to be back home and to see what's happened because when we were out there I was off social media and just focusing on the games and you don't know what's happening.

"I thought London was amazing having the reception there but today its been really good. I'm looking forward to getting back to normality and wearing pyjamas, eating nice food and chilling and relaxing. "And catching up on sleep for sure!"

Britain confirmed its place as a sporting powerhouse by coming second in both the Olympic and Paralympic medal tables.

Stafford's Ian Marsden won bronze in the Paralympics K1 200m paracanoe – and was close to taking gold after being involved in a three-way photo-finish in a thrilling race at Rio's Lagoa Stadium course. He tweeted on board the plane: "On my way home with my medal and looking forward to getting back and seeing everyone. Thanks again for your support."

Wyre Forest swimmer Claire Cashmore finally lived her dream of Paralympic gold after helping ParalympicsGB 4x100m medley team to victory.

The 28-year-old also won a silver medal in the 100m Breaststroke when she came in a close second place with a time of 37.02.

With a picture of her teammates she posted on her Instagram page: "My face says it all! Still can't believe this actually happened. Eight time lucky and my medal collection is complete.

She added: "Thank-you for all the amazing messages, the support has been unbelievable.

"Rio certainly surpassed all expectations, what a games! So many memories from an incredible three weeks."

Wolverhampton's Kyle Marsh joined his Paralympic GB teammates in celebrating bagging a bronze medal marking more success for Midlands' athletes at Rio.

Halesowen's Jordanne Whiley bagged bronze in the Wheelchair Tennis Doubles with her teammate Lucy Shuker.

Among Britain's Paralympic champions of Rio 2016 are Dame Sarah Storey, Kadeena Cox, Jonnie Peacock, Lee Pearson and Will Bayley.

The team will join Britain's Olympic athletes for a parade in Manchester on October 17 to celebrate their success at the Rio 2016 Games.