HARLOW’S Richard Chiassaro has been voted British team captain by his teammates for the World Para Athletics European Championships.

All 53 members of the team were given the opportunity to vote for their male and female captains.

Richard and female colleague Libby Clegg will pick up their duties at the team meeting ahead of the championships getting underway in Berlin on Monday 20 August.

Richard Chiassaro is a world T54 bronze medallist, keen to enjoy his impressive recent run of form.

Earlier this year, Chiassaro lowered the T54 800m world record for a short time. His 1:30.35 saw him top the rankings before the American Daniel Romanchuk bettered it in the States a couple of weeks later.

The 36-year-old will aim to defend his 200m title from 2016, as well as the three silver medals he won two years ago.

“I am honoured to have been voted captain of the team by my fellow athletes. There are many new faces on the team which is very encouraging, and I have a feeling it is going to be a great championship for the British team. Bring on Berlin!”

While Para Athletics head coach, Paula Dunn, said: “I am delighted that both Libby and Rich have been chosen as team captains.

“Both are great role models for the rest of the team, and thoroughly deserve this honour.

“For Libby, it has been a difficult couple of years so I’m glad to see her patience has paid off and she’s been rewarded in this way.

“For Rich, so many of his teammates look up to him for how he conducts himself both on and off the track. I’m really pleased to have these two representing Great Britain and Northern Ireland and leading the team in Berlin next week.”