A PARALYMPIC gold medallist visited an office in Hook to help raise cash for local good causes.

Richard Whitehead, who won gold in the 200-metre event at London 2012, was the guest of honour at Virgin Media, in Bartley Way.

The 37-year-old, who runs on prosthetic legs after a double congenital amputation, posed for photos in a booth and shared the images on social media.

The visit was part of the company’s annual charity day, in which money was raised for the Hamp-shire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, St Michael’s Hospice, in Aldermaston Road, Basingstoke, and Naomi House children’s hospice, in Sutton Scotney.

Clare Trussler, charity champ at Virgin Media, said: “The team put in a huge amount of effort with their sporting fancy dress and got into the spirit of the day. We were honoured to be joined by Richard as he is such an inspiration.”

Activities on the day included a 4x4 relay, an arm-wrestling contest and a tug-of-war. Mr Whitehead said: “Some fantastic charities will benefit from this event and a lot of fun was had by all who attended.

“The photo booth was a particular favourite of mine, although the arm-wrestling competition defini-tely brought out my competitive side.”