Stephens (pictured below and top, right) became a double leg amputee in 1997 following an accident on a train track on his ninth birthday.

However, he continued playing sport and was spotted by Hughes, who set him on the road to an elite career.

The 24-year-old from Bridgend is the F57 javelin world record holder.

As the plaque was unveiled, Stephens paid tribute to the contribution Hughes (pictured top, left) has made to his career as well as disability sport in Wales. 

"I joined several local clubs and tried ice sledge hockey, horse riding, rugby, archery, weight lifting, table tennis, football, swimming and athletics and it opened my mind to a whole world of Paralympic sport.

"If it wasn't for the local sports clubs providing these opportunities I'd never have got to where I have done – they gave me the chance to try new things and made me feel free.

"Then Anthony Hughes put a javelin in my hand and ever since I've been throwing sticks.

"His contribution to the sport is amazing.


"I don't think Welsh disability sport would be the same without him and I want to say a massive thank you."

Hughes said he was delighted to receive the award and admitted that finding Stephens was one of his greatest achievements.

"I was at an event in Newport when I saw Nathan's talent," said Hughes.

"He was a tiny kid but had a big personality and was very determined and I told his dad that he had the potential to be a world champion.

"He's like an adopted son to me in some ways.

"If receiving this award can boost the profile of disability sport in Wales then that's a good thing."

The unveiling of the plaque was organised by Join In Local Sport whose aim is to bring the Games into local communities with a big weekend of sports events across the UK from August 18 and 19 – the first weekend between the Olympics and Paralympics.

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