A GROUP of disabled children are “still buzzing” after getting the once in a lifetime opportunity to take on a Paralympic water rafting challenge.

Four youngsters from St John’s Roman Catholic Special School in Woodford Bridge got the chance to tackle the white water raft, kayak and canoe trails at Lee Valley Regional Park near Waltham Abbey on Wednesday (September 21).

They were among 50 others from across north, east London and Essex to be taken round the course, where Team GB one gold and silver medals at the London 2012 games.

St John’s teacher Janis Keith said: “Everybody, including staff, thoroughly enjoyed the Olympic rafting session – the facilities were very impressive.

“The boys are still buzzing about it, but they were admittedly completely exhausted in the evening.”

Lee Valley’s White Water Centre manager Paskell Blackwell added: “We firmly believe that everyone should be able to access all our activities and services and this special day shows how activities like this benefit a variety of different groups, promoting health and fitness and boosting confidence.”

The day was part of the park’s community access fund, which promotes sports and outdoor learning across London, Essex and the south east.