Paralympics archive: Fifth International Games (1956)
The Fifth International Paralympics were held at Stoke Mandeville in 1956. ITN filmed the opening ceremony – but with no sound. Instead, the presenter read from a script as the images played.
Though ITN did send a camera to the Fifth International Paralympics in 1956, it did not send a sound man, writes Ian Searcey.
The accompanying piece would have been voiced live by the newscaster in the studio, and so the only record we have of the commentary is the archived script of the 10.45pm bulletin on 28 July, 1956.
Below is a transcript of the words that were read out as the images were broadcast.
“We’re hearing a lot about the Olympics this year, of course, and at Stoke Mandeville today the Fifth International Paralympics were held.
“‘Paralympics’ are an athletic contest in which the contestants are people suffering from paralysis due to spinal injury.
“Sport is an important part of treatment for spinal cases, and the Games, held every year, are staged tio introduce the very necessary competitive spirt into the sports practised by the patients.
“Some sports need to be adapted to the ability of the players, but at others they can hold their own with the able-bodied. The equipment for these sports is costly and it has to be bought – that’s why they National Spinal Injuries Centre is appealing for funds.
“The standard of fitness and skill of some competitors would put a lot of un-handicapped people to shame.
“After the games, Sir Gerald Templar took the salute at the wheel-past of those who had taken part. The Games started in 1948 and have been international since 1952.
“After the Paralympics in 1956, its founder Dr Ludwig Guttmann was presented with the Fearnley Cup, an award for outstanding contribution to the Olympic ideal.”
