It has been revealed that Professor Stephen Hawking will appear at the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

The 70-year-old world-renowned physicist, who suffers from motor neurone disease, will be included in the show as recognition of his talents.

Oxford-born Hawking lost his ability to speak in 1985 following a severe bout of pneumonia.

His secret appearance in the Olympic Stadium spectacular was leaked when fellow performers heard his distinctive computerised voice during rehearsals.

The opening ceremony will begin at 7.30pm on August 29.