Special Olympian Micah Lambert’s face beamed when he walked into a surprise celebration at St Anne’s Church.

Mr Lambert won a gold medal for men’s singles in tennis, at the Special Olympics held in June, in Berlin, Germany. Mr Lambert is an acolyte at the Southampton church.

On July 2, the church wanted to show their appreciation and encouragement.

Mr Lambert said: “I was very shocked when I walked into the church; but at the same time very happy and appreciative.”

Handmade Bermuda flags waved throughout the congregation as Mr Lambert entered the church.

St Anne’s churchwarden Toni Spring said: “Church secretary, Doreen Darrell decided to make Bermuda flags, and take the notice of him winning the gold, that was published, and put that on the other side of the flag.

“So we waved flags for him and cheered when he came in. He was really surprised; because he came in carrying the cross and he had no idea that people would be cheering for him.”

Mr Lambert won silver and bronze medals at the 2019 Special Olympics in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Ms Spring said Mr Lambert is focused and trains hard.

“If you are an Olympian whether regular, Special, or Paralympics, it is an accomplishment because very few people in the world reach that status,” Ms Spring said.

A dedicated athlete and acolyte, Mr Lambert said his faith has helped him to navigate life’s challenges. He said: “I like it because it is one hour which is not bad. It helps me to feel relaxed. In church, I like to help the pastor give out crackers and wine for communion.”

He said his faith has taught him to have patience.

“When I play tennis I can use this to win,” he said.

The church’s efforts to celebrate and encourage Mr Lambert is not over.

Ms Spring said: “He is holding his own and is doing a stellar job. We as a society and community need to help him further his career and athletic goals.”

St Anne’s wants to encourage the Government to further support the efforts of the successful athletes.

Ms Spring said Special Olympians such as Mr Lambert should be getting the same financial support and recognition from the Government as Olympians do.

“With Flora Duffy they renamed streets,” Ms Spring said. “These are Olympians as well and they need to be recognised.”

Mr Lambert not only wants to continue to improve his own athletic capabilities but also give back to the community that has supported him.

“My goal is to be a tennis coach to children and I would also like to be a professional cleaner,” Mr Lambert said. “In my free time, I would like to travel the world in first class on JetBlue.”