Finding Herself in Southampton’s Story: Thelma’s Paralympic Gold

While exploring Southampton’s Oral History Archive, Community Curator Thelma was stunned to find a photo of her teenage self. Thelma joined the GB swimming squad at 14 years old, and aged just 16, Thelma made history at the 1988 Seoul Paralympics – becoming the first person from Southampton to win an Olympic gold. She went on to win 15 medals across her Paralympic career, including an incredible nine golds. At the 1988 Seoul Paralympics she won gold and bronze medals.

Since retiring from elite sport, Thelma has dedicated her time to community work and lifelong learning – earning a PhD and becoming a key figure in Southampton City Scouts, where she leads on volunteer development. She also chairs the Southampton branch of BackCare, is a Local Connector for Southampton Forward, and a proud member of the Saints Disabled Supporters Association.

Now, Thelma is one of our City Reflections Community Curators – helping shape a new 6-point light projection trail coming to the city in February 2026. Each curator is exploring a theme and building; Thelma’s is Culture at the Bargate. She’s on a mission to understand what ‘culture’ means to everyday people of Southampton – and to shine a light on little known stories and shared heritage.

We can’t wait to discover the stories Thelma and the team uncover in the months ahead.