A YOUNG girl from Taunton is preparing to play a starring role in the Paralympic opening ceremony – thanks to her lucky birthday.

Lucia Edwards, seven, was born on December 20, 2004 – the date Government bosses promised children would have the chance to play a part in the Olympics.

Lucia’s dad, Mark, who is a councillor on Taunton Deane Council and helped organise the Torch Relay through the town in May, said: “She is getting very excited. It will be a fantastic experience for her and the whole family.”