A WIRRAL teenager who already holds a raft of British records for deaf swimming is in-line for a national award.

National deaf charity Signature has announced the shortlists for its annual awards and Nathan Young is in the running for the 'Inspirational Young Person' accolade.

The 16-year-old, from Wallasey, is a member of Bebington Swimming Club and was born with a genetic condition which has seen his hearing deteriorate rapidly.

He began swimming at the age of nine and quickly became a dedicated and highly skilled swimmer putting in hours and hours of practise with his local teammates.

In October last year Nathan underwent a double cochlear implant operation which he described as 'life-changing'. But it didn't affect his success.

At this year's GB Deaf Swimming Championships Nathan won six medals; four gold, one silver and one bronze.

His achievements at the same event also means he now holds the GB Deaf Swimming records for the 50-metre backstroke, Fly and Free (age 15) and 50 Free, 100 Free and 50 meter fly (age 16) all long course.

On his latest accolade, Nathan said: "I really enjoy swimming, taking it up was a brilliant choice for me.

"Once I'm in the water it's just about me and my swimming, not my hearing.

"I have made a lot of new friends and if I don't hear something they will repeat or explain no matter how long it takes. I'm never made to feel stupid.

"I'm very happy about the award nomination.

"I hope that I can inspire more children and young people to follow their dreams and aim high. I'm now aiming for selection for the Deaflympics in 2017."

Nathan was recently part of the GB Deaf Swimming team in the World Deaf Swimming Championships in Texas.

The team did very well with Nathan now placed eighth in the world in the 200 backstroke.

Signature's chief operating officer Lindsay Foster is impressed by Nathan's determination.

She said: "Nathan is a perfect example of success through sheer hard work and devotion.

"He is a great role model for all other young people in sport.

"He has excelled at swimming and shown that hearing issues and deafness are no barrier to reaching the top.

"Making the shortlist is another fantastic achievement for Nathan for which he should be rightly proud of himself and we wish him lots of luck."