A DOUBLE Paralympic gold medallist from South Craven is tackling a world record attempt.

Danielle Brown, who grew-up in Lothersdale, is part of a team of disabled people which aims to become the largest ever to scuba dive in the open sea.

She is joining forces with Team CLAW (Conquer Land Air Water) for the challenge, which is taking place in the Maldives in February.

Danielle, who has never dived before, will receive training from instructors with disabilities before setting out.

She said: “The aim is to shatter perceptions about disability.

“The real disabling thing about a disability is other people not seeing the value that lies within.

“I’m proud to be an ambassador for Team CLAW. Together we can change perceptions and redefine ability.”

The dive is the first part of a triple attempt to create a world record, in an initiative known as Operation Blue Freedom.

There will also be a mass climb of Siachen Glacier in India and a sky dive in Dubai.

The whole challenge will be filmed for a documentary.

Team CLAW has been working with the Maldivian Integrated Tourism Council on the scuba diving element of the challenge and the aim is to build on that work in the future.

A challenge spokesman said: “We want to dispel the common perception of pity, charity and inability associated with ‘disability’. Our hope is to instead promote a perception of dignity, ability and freedom.”

Danielle is a double Paralympic gold medallist and five-times World Champion in archery.

She was the world number one for her entire career and made history when she became the first disabled athlete to represent England in an able-bodied discipline at the Commonwealth Games, and won gold.

The former pupil of South Craven School, at Cross Hills, now works as a keynote speaker, specialising in self-development, success skills and breaking through barriers.

The MBE recipient also works with young people to help them improve their academic performance and mental wellbeing.

Last year she co-wrote a book providing a motivational guide for children.

She penned Be Your Best Self: Life Skills For Unstoppable Kids with youngster Nathan Kai.