David Weir immortalised in paint (From Sutton Guardian)

Paralympic champion David Weir immortalised in paint

3:19pm Monday 3rd December 2012 in News By Sophia Sleigh, Reporter

Sutton’s Paralympic legend, David Weir, has been immortalised in paint.

Artist, Dominic Pearce, 50, recreated the magic of the Weirwolf after he met him at an Olympic inspired art group in 2010.

He has now decided to donate the portrait to Sutton Council for the enjoyment of generations to come.

The framed portrait shows the wheelchair athlete looking thoughtful following a training session.

Mr Pearce, who is from Paddington, said: "I tried to capture what a phenomenal athlete David is. I thought about including his wheelchair but decided he didn’t need it.

"David’s badly disabled but you’d never believe it when you see him in action.

"When I met him he was very focused and it’s his energy and dedication that I’ve tried to show.

"David saw the painting when it was complete and said he liked it. That gives me great personal pleasure. I’m pleased now that it will be on display for local people to enjoy."

Mr Pearce met with Carshalton Councillor Jill Whitehead at Sutton Central Library on Friday, November 30, to hand over the picture.

The painting will go on display at the Summer Festival Exhibition taking place in the Europa Gallery, in Sutton Library, between Thursday, December 6, and Saturday, December 29.