The heavens over Cardiff Bay opened on the evening of Thursday, September 26, just as they had over the Seine at the opening of the Paris Olympics back in August.

But this time athletes were sheltered with the Senedd playing host to a special homecoming event.

Olympians and Paralympians were welcomed by First Minister Eluned Morgan MS, Presiding Officer Elin Jones MS and veteran Welsh Paralympian Baroness Danni-Grey Thompson, Chair of Sport Wales.

Baroness Tanni-Grey Thompson (front right) took time out from hosting the event to chat with (from left to right) the Lord Mayor of Swansea, Cllr Paxton Hood-Williams; Mayor of Neath Port Talbot, Cllr Matthew Crowley; Chair of Carmarthenshire, Cllr Handel Davies and Cllr William Powell, representing Powys.
Baroness Tanni-Grey Thompson (front right) took time out from hosting the event to chat with (from left to right) the Lord Mayor of Swansea, Cllr Paxton Hood-Williams; Mayor of Neath Port Talbot, Cllr Matthew Crowley; Chair of Carmarthenshire, Cllr Handel Davies and Cllr William Powell, representing Powys. (Senedd Cymru)

Dozens of Wales’ Olympic and Paralympic heroes were feted in speeches and music on the Senedd steps.

One of the Paralympians in attendance was Brecon’s Rob Davies, a GB silver medalist at this year’s Paralympics in table tennis back in September in the French capital.

Among those who had also gathered for the homecoming was Cllr William Powell, representing Powys County Council. With both families hailing from Talgarth, Rob was pleased to send a special message to his proud grandmother Polly, who also lives in the town.

Speaking about the homecoming event, Cllr William Powell said: “Rob, like his fellow athletes, is an inspirational sports figure in Powys, across Wales and beyond.

“I was delighted that we had time to catch up at the Senedd. The whole event was a truly special occasion that I was glad to be a part of.”