MARC Woods is urging anyone left disappointed at missing out on tickets for London 2012 to purchase some for the subsequent Paralympic Games.

The four-time gold medallist, born in Grimsby, believes the turn of the year will heighten the excitement building up to the Olympics.

But the former medal-winning swimmer is sure the Paralympics – which begins on August 30 – will be just as exciting.

Preparing to take part in the gruelling Centenary Race to the South Pole, the 42-year-old said: "Paralympic sport has a good heritage in the United Kingdom and I think it is going to be great.

"Great Britain has a very strong team and hopefully expectations will be met, I see no reason why they won't be.

"In terms of swimming, Team GB should be strong and do well, but the likes of China, Australia and America are all very strong as well.

"I would say if there is anybody wanting tickets, go and get them and see some paralympic sport."

Woods, a veteran of five Paralympic Games – in Seoul, Barcelona, Atlanta, Sydney and Athens – still has family living in Holton-le-Clay.

The Lincolnshire village hopes to have another athlete to cheer on in London with former resident Hollie Arnold, who now lives in south Wales, hotly tipped to be named in the Great Britain squad. Woods is well-placed to give advice to the teenage javelin star, pictured, after winning 12 medals across five Games.

He said: "It is a great opportunity for Hollie. I have never met her but I have heard of her and there will be an expectation on her. I think one of the biggest challenges facing athletes who are selected for London is not to get distracted by all the excitement.

"My advice would be to keep your head down and work hard and not get distracted because this is the most keenly anticipated Games ever.

"Staying focused will be really important.

"The build-up has already started and it should be a great event."