Paralympic champion swimmer Ellie Simmonds was in Trafalgar Square last week for International Paralympic Day, which was the day that tickets went on sale for the 2012 London Paralympics. She told us how much she’s looking forward to next year’s Games.

Do you have another favourite Paralympic sport to watch?

No, not really. Well, I like athletics, but I just enjoy all sports really. Although when I compete at things like the Paralympics, I don’t get to see other sports. There’s some wheelchair basketball happening now, and I tried that last week. It was quite hard to do, but it was cool as well.

Are there any other sports you’ve had a go at?

Just boccia, which was quite good. I thought I was okay at it!

Do you think the Paralympics will be even more popular this time?

Yes, because it’s a home Games. Hopefully it will inspire other disabled or able-bodied people to get into sport.

Have you seen much of the Olympic Park yet?

I went when there were three years to go, but I haven’t been since. Our trials in March are actually at the Olympic pool, but I don’t think that I want to go to see it yet. I want it to be a big surprise for the Paralympics next year.

Now you’re pretty well known and successful, do you feel the pressure more when you get in the pool?

I do, but it drives me forward and makes me want to achieve even more.

All everyone’s talking about now is 2012. Are you dying for it to come around quickly?

Yes, I am. Beijing feels like it was yesterday, but it was actually three years ago. Hopefully this next year will go really fast!

Do you think you can repeat your Beijing performances?

Hopefully I can. So far, since Beijing, I’ve done really well. I got two golds at the Europeans and last year at the World Championships I got four golds so, hopefully, it’ll all go well.

Would you be happy with anything less than a gold medal?

I love to get gold medals, but I’m not really thinking about it. Whatever happens, if I’ve tried my best, I’ll be okay.

Do you feel like you’ve got more world records in you?

Hopefully, yes. I’m getting older all the time, I’m getting more experienced and my training is getting better.

What did you think of Oscar Pistorius’ recent performances in the IAAF World Championships?

I thought he was amazing. To be able to race at the able-bodied world championships is fantastic. He’s here today and he’s an absolute legend. I think it’s good that he got the publicity for the Paralympics.

You’ve got until 26 September to apply for tickets to the Paralympics. See www.tickets.london2012.com.