The one major problem whilst being a volunteer occurred yesterday and I knew it was coming.

Originally when we set off from Sheffield two months ago twenty four of us set sail on our voyage. Now there are only eleven.

We all knew that the day would come because there were fewer volunteers required for the Paralympics but during the Olympics we bonded like a family and looked after one and other.

Like the Olympics bringing the world together for the largest sporting spectacle, it also brings the volunteers closer together both international and local. I have personally made friends from all around the globe whilst on this volunteer programme and it has opened up many doors to my future.

Although one of the main lessons I have learnt is to respect everyone not just for their attributes but also their shortcomings and our twenty four became more of a brotherhood because it was the longest we have all spent in a foreign country away from our families.

Personally though, even with the feelings of sadness as my friends and now family boarded the coach, I was happy for them because they get to go see their families. For me I am here with another ten of my new family and I know my family are at home waiting for me but they can wait another three weeks.

I am still here to do a job and to be the best volunteer I can be and embrace the Paralympics spirit as much as I can, so I can’t remain saddened but I can be happy knowing that my friends and family will all be back in Sheffield when I arrive home.

Till then there will be two weeks of work for the Paralympics but before then I will do some more travelling round the city, play some football, tennis, badminton and I will get a hair cut. This could be fun in China, wish me luck.