China, who have finished top of the medal table at the last two Paralympics, targeted the event in Guangzhou as a key stepping stone to London and their athletes have so far not disappointed.

Wu Qing set the tone by claiming a new world record of 9.60 metres in the women's shot put F35/36 event on the first day of competition, while Yang Xiusen picked up gold in the men's 100m backstroke S8 and set a new Asian record with a phenomenal time of 1min 12.77sec in front of a rapturous home crowd.

Iran is currently in second place with 33 medals and 14 golds while Japan is third with 52 medals and 13 golds, although International Paralympic Committee (IPC) President Sir Philip Craven (pictured below right) admitted the event is about far more than the sport.

"I went to the Athletes' Village and met a lot of athletes in the restaurant and they said it's a wonderful Games," he said.

"The facility, the competitions and the friendships are all great.

"I know it's very well organised and I know it comes down to very good teamwork between the organising committee and both the Asian Paralympic Committee (APC) and the IPC.

"Things are going very well, as far as we can see, in the athletics competitions.

"There was a good crowd and great atmosphere.

"The enthusiasm and support were at the swimming earlier this morning and the basketball yesterday.

"Then you just look at the Opening Ceremony - that was amazing.

"I saw the improvement and more importantly I saw continuation for the athletes.

"That's the most important thing.

"It's not just about hosting a Paralympic Games in Beijing in 2008 and that's it.

"What we want to see is the Movement going forward.

"It's great to be aware of China's support of Paralympic sports.

"I love being here - it feels just like home."

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