MMU Cheshire's exercise and sport science department regularly hosts the 34-year-old at its £10 million sport science centre in Crewe and have welcomed Storey's superb performance.

Storey, a multiple Paralympic medallist in cycling and swimming, broke a world record earlier on Thursday for the 72nd time in her career in qualifying and is still in contention for another three medals at the Games.

Her husband, Barney is also a member of the ParalympicsGB cycling squad and has claimed gold at two different Paralympics, riding as a sighted pilot. The Storeys were both awarded honorary degrees by the institution in 2009, and later that year MMU pledged to sponsor the couple ahead of the London Games.

At the time, Sarah described the partnership as a 'hugely significant' step in their Paralympic preparations, and as something which would allow them to 'concentrate fully on fulfilling our dreams of competing in London'.

Dean of MMU Cheshire Dennis Dunn said: "The University has made a substantial contribution to these Paralympic Games. Sport Science based at the Crewe campus has been the focal point of our support and I am immensely proud of our talented scientists and students whose contributions will do much to enhance the performance levels of the athletes they are working with.

"Sarah and Barney Storey are fantastic role models for disability sports and our partnership with them will greatly enhance the work we do to improve both athletic performance and the quality of life for people with disabilities."

Whilst the University can lay claim to helping Storey's Paralympic preparation, the institution has also been supporting both ParalympicsGB's swimming and football teams in the run up to the event. University academics Dr Carl Payton, Conor Osborough and Casey Lee are currently working with the swimming teams in London, while Ayser Hussain is working with Team GB's football side.

By Stuart Appleby and Carly Baldwin