A YOUNG aspiring paralympian with cerebral palsy and autism scooped his certificate at the Pride of Swindon Awards 2019.

Thomas Stamp, who is 16 and from Wroughton, was the victim of a physical attack last May when two teenagers set upon him in the park for being disabled.

Despite still recovering from injuries after the attack he went on to compete at the Cerebral Palsy International Sports and Recreation Association world games in Barcelona in August and picked up medals in the 100m and 200m races.

He told the told the Adver, after accepting the award from MP Robert Buckland with his mum Sarah and dad Simon watching, that he wanted to inspire others with his success.

"As soon as I got on stage I was so proud of myself and getting to this place and getting here and how much hard work it took," he said.

"Finally being here is such a achievement.

"Everything that has come towards me and tried to stop me in my path I've just gone past it and tried my hardest to do my best. And that's what has got me here today.

"If anybody out there in life has something they want to do, they should know that if you put enough effort into it you will get it in the end."

MORE NEWS: Mayor gives emotional speech to winners of Pride of Swindon Awards.