An inspirational athlete, coach and ambassador has taken her rightful place alongside some of Bolton’s most remarkable women.
Six-time Special Olympics Gold Medal winning cyclist Kiera Byland today attended a ceremony at the town hall, where her image was unveiled as part of the building’s Brilliant Bolton Women installation.
First opened in 2017, Brilliant Bolton Women displays photos and descriptions of the achievements of local women including Helen Wright, the town’s first female mayor in 1950, and renowned Egyptologist Annie Barlow.
Display boards detailing Kiera's achievements were unveiled by the Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Andy Morgan, who first requested that her story be added to the collection.
Alongside her six Special Olympic medals, Kiera has won five World Championship Golds and has qualified as a cycling coach and swimming teacher.
Among her many roles and responsibilities, Kiera is vice chair of the Special Olympics Great Britain Athlete Leadership Team and has been offered a place on the World Health Organisation Technical Advisory Group for Europe.
Her success has seen her receive invites to Number 10 Downing Street and the White House, and she was awarded a British Empire Medal in 2021 for services to sport.
Speaking at the event Kiera, who has Rubenstein Taybi Syndrome, Autism and an Intellectual Disability, explained how sport and the Special Olympics gave her the confidence to achieve and to help others.
She said: “I’m now a confident female role model and part of a bigger community.
“My focus is on raising awareness of health and inclusion, whether that’s being a member of the World Health Organisation, to visiting Number 10, The Whitehouse or talking to school children, students, and businesses.
“I would like to thank the mayor, and my home town of Bolton, for continuing to support me in my goal towards a more inclusive world for people with Intellectual Disability like me.”
Cllr Morgan said: “For seven years, this collection has stood as a source of pride and inspiration, and we are thrilled to add a new chapter.
“Kiera’s achievements, first highlighted by previous Mayoress of Bolton Mrs Gay Wharton, not only make her a worthy addition but also serve as a powerful reminder of the impact that dedication, resilience, and a passion for excellence can have.
“It’s hoped that Kiera’s story, alongside those of the other brilliant women featured here, will continue to inspire generations to come.”