Despite a disappointing performance from Russia’s Olympic team, which finished the Games with its worst Winter Olympic medal tally in history, the nation’s Paralympians picked up 38 medals, 12 of which were gold, to top the overall medal standings and finish second in the gold medal count to Germany.

The ceremony was the first time Paralympic athletes had been awarded in the Kremlin in this way as on previous occasions, the Russian President met with the medallists but did not actually present them with awards.

As well as state prizes, the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic gold medallist received a financial reward of €100,000 ((£89,000/$135,000) each while the silver and bronze medallists were awarded €60,000 (£53,000/$81,000) and €40,000 (£35,000/$54,000)respectively.

Medvedev said: "The Olympics left us with mixed feelings but here [at the Paralympics] the emotions were the same for everyone.

"You have all done very well."



The Russian President praised the Paralympic medallist for their bravery and also stated that they have proved themselves fantastic role models for the Russian public.

Medvedev said: "You have shown great willpower and courage.

"It should be an example for everyone who participates in competitions."

The President also said the Russian authorities will work more actively to improve conditions for disabled athletes and further develop Paralympic sport in the country.

Medvedev claimed that the Russian authorities will provide disabled access to all sporting events at the 2014 Olympics and Paralympics in Sochi, the first time the Winter Games have been held in the country.

He said: "We will set new accessibility standards which will become an example for the whole of Russia and will be implemented throughout the country."

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