McCreadie, skip of the wheelchair curling team, will be taking part in his seventh Paralympics, having made his debut as a swimmer at the 1972 Games which were held in Heidelberg.
 
The 63-year-old Scotsman said: "I am totally shocked, surprised and amazed to know that I am [going to be] holding the flag to represent all the skiers, all the curlers, and the support staff.

"Some things you can’t put into words.

"It will probably hit me as the team comes out onto the track at the presentation at the Opening Ceremony.
 
"I’m sure all the team will do Britain proud."
 
Glasgow-born McCreadie, who lives in Lochwinnoch, Renfrewshire, is one of three curlers returning from the team that won the silver medal four years ago at the Turin Paralympic Winter Games.

He is also a double world champion, in 2004 and 2005.
 
ParalympicsGB chief executive Phil Lane said: "Michael is the most experienced athlete we have out in Vancouver so for us it was a straight-forward decision.

"I am delighted he will represent ParalympicsGB at the Opening Ceremony in this way."
 
McCreadie has competed at six Paralympic Games so far, four as a competitor and two as a coach. 
 
Meanwhile, Olympic gold medallist Amy Williams sent a message of good luck to Britain ’s Paralympians as they prepare to compete.

Williams, who won the bob skeleton here last month, said: "I just want to wish you all the best of luck and I know you have all worked really hard to be there.
 
"Just follow your dreams, you have all done all you can to prepare.

"So take a deep breath at the start of your race and just enjoy it.

"You are there to race and have fun and compete for your country and if you have that mindset, like I did, you’ll get your best result."
 
ParalympicsGB has a team of 12 athletes competing across two sports: alpine skiing and wheelchair curling.


Related stories
March 2010: McCreadie hoping pressure will take its toll on favourites Canada
January 2010: McCreadie chosen as British skip for wheelchair curling team in Vancouver
December 2009: Michael McCreadie is hoping to again defy the odds at the Winter Paralympics in Vancouver