March 13 - Vladimir Putin (pictured) has tipped Russia's athletes to help restore some national pride at the Paralympics, which opened in Vancouver last night, after the country's disappointing performance at the Olympics last month.



The Russian Prime Minister said he is certain that the team will demonstrate its "skill and spirit" at the Vancouver Games.

Russia finished top of the medals table at the last Paralympics in Turin four years ago when they won 33 medals, 13 of which were gold.

They have sent a team of 32 to this year's Games.

Putin said: "I am sure that in an honest and tough battle you will demonstrate to the full your sporting skill, strength of spirit and fighting character.

"Your victories and achievement will write yet another bright chapter in the history of the Paralympics."

Russia endured its worst-ever performance at the Olympics in Vancouver when they finished a lowly 11th in the medals table with 15 medals, only three of which were gold.

The poor showing led to the resignation as President of the Russian Olympic Committee of Leonid Tyagachev.

A good performance from Russia is seen as vital as Sochi is due to host the next Paralympics in 2014.

It will be first time that Russia have ever hosted the Paralympics.