PARALYMPIC stars Tanni Grey-Thompson and Terry Bywater were the toast of their home town last week.

Redcar and Cleveland Mayor Arthur Dobson invited the Sydney heroes to a presentation at Eston Town Hall to congratulate them on their achievements.

Tanni, 31, lives in Redcar with her husband Ian and became a national celebrity following the Sydney Paralympics where she won four track gold medals.

Terry, who has just celebrated his eighteenth birthday and also lives in Redcar, was a member of the basketball team pipped to a bronze by the USA.

Terry is a full-time athlete who had his left leg amputated when he was two. He has backing from the National Lottery.

Coun Dobson said he was delighted the pair had been able to accept his invitation and said he enjoyed hearing the athletes' memories from the Sydney games.