OSCAR PISTORIUS wants the Paralympics to be just as popular as the able-bodied games when they arrive in London next year.

The double-amputee clinched three gold medals at the Beijing Games in 2008 and will race in the 100 metre, 200 metre, 400 metre and relay events next year.

He will also compete at the Olympics after the IAAF decided the carbon fibre blades he uses in place of his legs do not give him an unfair advantage.

“The excitement will spread across the world when the Paralympics and the Olympics come here,” said the 24-year-old South African.

“I have no doubt that the Paralympic tickets will get snapped up just as quickly as the Olympic tickets did.”

The ‘Blade Runner’ also hopes the London Games will change people’s perceptions of the Paralympics and give it the platform which he believes they command.

“We are trying to change the inspirational aspect of it,” he said.

“This is sport, it’s dedication. Blood, sweat and tears are shed on a daily basis.

“People are going to witness that for the first time next year.

“We hope it will undergo a transition from Paralympic sport just being something that we think is inspirational to something that we get addicted to just like any other sport.”