David Beckham is put through his paces by the the GB blind squad

David Beckham has said the character of the ParalympicsGB 5-a-side football team makes him 'proud to be British'.

The former England captain kicked-off his campaign as London 2012 Paralympics Games Ambassador in unique style, joining visually-impaired Team GB captain Dave Clarke in a specially-arranged training session in the capital.

Beckham, who earlier this week celebrated LA Galaxy's MLS title success, was blindfolded and took part in a series of drills to highlight the level of skill and commitment the Paralympics squad face.

And the former Manchester United superstar managed to impress, scoring a penalty at the end of the session.

But Beckham's goal is to drive supermarket Sainsbury's Million Kids Challenge initiative, in which children are being encouraged to take part in Paralympic sports such as football.

'It has been a fantastic experience training with the ParalympicsGB 5-a-side Football squad,' Beckham said.

'I have never experienced or participated in blind football before. They are a real testament to the quality of our Paralympic athletes.

'The character and determination they show by doing this every single day, makes me proud to be British.'

Indeed it was a compliment captain Clarke will never forget and hopes Beckham's influence can have a great impact on increasing participation across the country.

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He said: 'Spending a day training with a world football icon like David Beckham was a great experience we will never forget.

'This opportunity allowed our squad to showcase the skills and levels of concentration needed to participate in blind football at an elite level.'

Read more and see the footage at the following links:

https://j-sainsbury.co.uk/media/latest-stories/2011/20111124-sainsburys-premiers-first-phase-of-beckham-marketing-campaign/

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/olympics/article-2065576/David-Beckham-blindfolded-Paralympics-football-session.html#ixzz1ecMNo7uG