Ellie Simmonds turns pack leader as swimming star meets Brownies and Cubs

Five times gold medallist Ellie, who was born in Walsall and grew up in Aldridge, joined the 3rd Pelsall Cubs.

Ellie used to be a Brownie as a child and still has a soft spot for the Girl Guides and Scout Association.

Ellie, who only returned from Rio two weeks ago, met all the Cubs and took part in a variety of different games and activities with them.

She also answered questions about her time in Rio and what it's like to be a Paralympic swimmer.

She was invested into 3rd Pelsall Cubs on Tuesday and also presented with a Walsall North District neckerchief and the highest swimming badge in Scouting.

Siân Annakin, assistant district commissioner for Cubs in Dudley District and part of the West Mercia County Cubs Centenary team, was at the session and said: "She was a great influence on the young people and I heard several talking about how they could go to Tokyo 2020."

Ellie's father Steve said: "I think Ellie likes working with the kids because she and indeed we think it's important that they get to see that the person behind the screen is real, and that they do normal things too.

"It gives them more of a realistic understanding and gives them something to aspire to.

"Ellie gets something out of it too, she just really loves getting involved and helping the kids when and where she can."

Tweeting about the visit, Cubs 100 West Mercia said: "3rd Pelsall Cubs having a great time with Ellie Simmonds."

Ellie responded by saying: "Thank you for having me!! Great to see the other side haha."

Cubs 11 West Mercia replied: "Any time you want a change, you are a fabulous Cub leader they loved it. Thank you."

Ellie is not a novice at volunteering. Since moving to Manchester around 18 months ago, she has also been volunteering as a leader for the 4th Didsbury Brownie group in the city.

All 25 girls watched as she won both a gold and a bronze medal in the S6 disability swimming category in Rio.

The Paralympian held a special meeting at Didsbury Methodist Church, where the group meet, to show the girls her medals.