A SOUTHAMPTON Special Olympian has been chosen as one of just 40 people from the UK who will carry the Olympic Torch through London today.

Maxine Griffiths, 30, of Saturn Close in Lordshill, suffered brain damage when she temporarily stopped breathing as a baby.

But despite having learning disabilities and being registered as disabled, Maxine's sporting achievements go from strength to strength.

Last year she won a gold medal in the long jump at the Special World Olympics in Dublin and, in recognition of the achievement, Olympic chiefs chose her to take part in Saturday's historic event.

It is the first time since 1948 that the Olympic Torch has been in the UK.

Each athlete will carry it on a 400m run as it makes its way around the world to this year's Olympic Games in Athens.

Maxine, who will also attend a party in Hyde Park on Saturday night, belongs to the Southampton City Council Day Services Sports Club in Millbrook and has a part-time job at McDonalds.

"I'm very excited about it all," she said. I feel really happy to have been chosen. My friends at work are all so pleased and so is my mum.

"I can't wait to hold the torch - that's going to be the best thing about the day."

Maxine's mum Elaine, who was once told her daughter would not be able to walk or sit up, said: "It's just wonderful. We are all so very proud."