Katumu Kailondo with former wheelchair basketball player Kevin Haynes and the Olympic mascots

A Dagenham girl had a once-in-a-lifetime experience after winning a five-star, all-expenses-paid trip to the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

Katumu Kailondo, nine, was allowed backstage access to watch Paralympic swimming and wheelchair basketball over three days from September 1 and had the chance to meet former bronze-medal winning wheelchair basketball star Kevin Hayes.

The keen swimmer was one of 100 prize-winners from the nationwide McDonald’s Mascotathon competition who had to record their sporting activities online in order to earn the dream prize.

“It was a great experience,” said Katumu, “My favourite part was going to the Olympic Park and seeing the basketball and the swimming.”

Katumu’s mother, Margaret, who joined her on the special trip, said the whole family was thrilled about Katumu’s triumph.

Each of the winners was given a special medal ceremony on arrival and received exclusive clothing and soft toys from Mascotathon. freddy.mayhew@archant.co.uk