Winter Paralympics: Memorable moments from the Beijing Games

After some thrilling action on the snow and ice, the Winter Paralympics have drawn to a close in Beijing.

It might have had a different look to previous Winter Games with Covid testing, masks, a closed loop and only a small number of home supporters permitted to attend.

But it still featured a host of superb performances from both new stars and those who have been there before, plus some incredible stories.

BBC Sport looks at some of the memorable moments.

Ukraine's participation at the Beijing Games had been in doubt following the country's invasion by Russia on 24 February.

But the 54-strong delegation overcame the odds to travel to China, with their head Valeriy Sushkevych describing it as a «miracle».

Russian and Belarus athletes were initially told they could compete in the Games as neutrals but less than 24 hours later, the International Paralympic Committee reversed the decision and they were banned from competing.

IPC president Andrew Parsons said the situation in the athletes village had «become untenable» and apologised to the Russian and Belarus athletes, laying the blame firmly on their governments.

It was a poignant moment as Para-biathlete Maksym Yarovyi carried the Ukrainian flag into the Bird's Nest stadium in the opening ceremony and their athletes were warmly welcomed.

Despite everything going on in their home country, the Ukraine team, which competed solely in the cross-country and biathlon events, produced an amazing sporting story in Beijing.

They finished second in the medal table with 29 medals — 11 gold, 10 silver and eight bronze and were the undoubted heroes of the Games.

Throughout the competition, the athletes, who themselves now face an uncertain future, reflected on the situation and their family and