Sir Philip claimed that London 2012 had propelled the Paralympic Movement to new heights and that some countries had witnessed seismic shifts in attitudes towards people with a disability as a result.  

"After taking so many steps forward with the best Paralympic Games ever in London, it is important that we do not take a step back," he said.

"We must all continue to enjoy working together to progress and develop our Movement for the benefit of all.

"I'd personally like to thank all those involved in delivering the Paralympic Movement's most successful year to date in 2012. 

"From my experiences in life, it takes at least 10 years of diligent work to achieve major objectives. 

"2012 delivered an amazing rendition of the IPC vision 'to enable Paralympic athletes to achieve sporting excellence and inspire and excite the world'."

Sir Philip now wants that momentum to be maintained in 2013. 

London 2012 attracted a whole host of new Paralympic fans, including London Mayor Boris Johnson and "Carry On" actress Barbara Windsor, who tried out sitting volleyball

"For the summer sports that host major Championships it is important for them to maintain and try and build on the level of competition that was achieved in London," he said.

"It is also vitally important that we all work together to sustain the media interest generated in 2012.

"The world's media has a key role to play in all our progress and hopefully 2013 is the year they realise that the athletes who inspired and excited the world in London compete every year, not just every four years at the Paralympics.

"In terms of winter sport it is all about building for Sochi 2014 with the world's best athletes testing out their opponents in World Championships before testing out the venues in the city that will stage the next Paralympic Winter Games."

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