Peter Carruthers MBE: A statement from the BPA

The British Paralympic Association is saddened to learn of the death of Paralympian Peter Carruthers MBE.

Following a road accident in 1983 Peter was keen to continue an active lifestyle and, with the support of his wife Sheila, adapted his wheelchair on his kitchen table into a specialist racing chair.

Peter played wheelchair rugby in its early days in the UK and went on to have a long and successful racing career – completing more than 50 marathons.

The highlight of his racing career came at the 1988 Seoul Paralympic Games where Peter won 100m gold and claimed the world record in the process.

Four years later Peter turned out for ParalympicsGB at Barcelona 1992 where he set national records in three track events.

Peter encouraged others to take up wheelchair racing and became Chair of the British Wheelchair Racing Association (BWRA) and saw it grow into a thriving sport.

In his later life Peter continued to play wheelchair rugby with East Midlands Marauders and, in recognition of his achievements, was awarded an honourary MA from Loughborough University.

BPA Chair Nick Webborn said: “His work in advancing sports chair and wheelchair design is a also a huge legacy and helped so many of our community.

“His achievements were extraordinary, his contribution immense, and he will be sorely missed”