Both will not be at the ceremony at the Verona Arena, a Roman amphitheatre in the historic centre of the city, as they are competing the following day.

But they will take part via a video sequence, along with fellow ParalympicsGB teammates, to be shown as part of the parade.

Welsh Para-Alpine skier Fitzpatrick, who is visually-impaired, is Britain's most decorated Winter Paralympian with six medals.

The 27-year-old will take part in the Paralympics almost three months after sustaining a significant knee injury and just over a year after breaking her leg.

"I'm super excited, I still can't believe I've made it to Cortina and so this is an extra cherry on top," she said.

Scottish Para-Nordic skier Meenagh is set to compete in his third Paralympics after appearances at the 2018 and 2022 Games.

The 36-year-old lost both legs in 2011 while serving with the Parachute Regiment in Afghanistan.

He became the first Briton to win a medal at the World Para Nordic Skiing Championships when he claimed silver in the 12.5km individual biathlon in 2023.

"It's remarkable. I try really hard every day to represent my sport, myself and my country in the best way I can," he said.

"I try to do that in my behaviour and express that in my performance, so now to have that little bit of recognition – I'm a bit speechless."

The Games, which run until 15 March, will mark the 50th anniversary of the first Winter Paralympics.