IF YOU’RE going to dream it pays to dream big.

In Thomas Brown’s case he has always wanted to be a Paralympic swimmer and he knows that if you want to achieve a dream you have to put the hard work in.

So for the past three years he has spent hundreds of hours practising in his local pool.

Most mornings he will be in the pool for 5am, swim for two hours and then go back again in the evenings for another two-hour session to develop his swimming technique.

He was nominated for the award by head teacher Frances Entwistle, who said: “He has represented his team, Bobcats, at local, regional and international events and his determination has led to Tom being accepted onto the ASA British talent programme, making it possible for him to eventually become part of the British Swimming Team, achieving his personal goal.”

Thomas is also one of Ridgewood’s Scouts and a school sports ambassador, assisting pupils with special educational needs to take part in a range of sporting activities across Burnley.

His mum Mandy said Thomas, who suffers from moderate learning difficulties, has thrived since attending secondary school.

She said he’s always excelled at swimming and it’s one area of his life which he is often much better at than his friends. “He started when he was four and now swims for about 18 hours a week. He just loves it.

“When he heard he was getting this award, he was really chuffed. He is a boy of few words but he’s really pleased.”

Now they’re hoping Thomas will be able to do work experience as a lifeguard at the pool where he trains, St Peter’s Leisure Centre in Burnley.

“Tom is an inspiration,” added Mrs Entwistle.