A YOUNG Wirral swimmer who will fly the flag for England this summer has been recognised for his achievements by being named an ambassador for the YMCA.

Nathan Young, from Wallasey, is one of 15 swimmers who will take the plunge after being selected to represent Team GB Deaf Swimming Club at the World Deaf Swimming Championships in Texas in August.

The 15-year-old, who began swimming at the age of nine, is profoundly deaf as a result of a genetic condition which has seen his hearing deteriorate rapidly since being diagnosed as a toddler.

Last November, Nathan – who attends Kingsmead School – underwent a double cochlear implant operation but was back to his full six days a week training almost immediately.

On Wednesday, Nathan – a member of Bebington Swimming Club – was presented with a £500 cheque from the Wirral YMCA to help towards the self-funded trip to Texas, described by his mum Lisa as an “opportunity of a lifetime”.

He was also officially recognised as a YMCA Ambassador.

Wirral YMCA chief executive Nigel Hughes said: “Nathan has inspired my colleagues and I - his courage in facing a tough physical barrier and his outstanding sporting skills in his chosen sport of swimming sets him aside and makes him someone of special importance - and deserving of recognition - and I feel sure would show many young people that you can overcome challenges in life and you can stand tall despite what life throws at you."

Proud mum Lisa told the Globe that Nathan’s deafness makes it difficult for him to socialise, listen to music, go to the cinema or talk on the phone, with swimming his “normal”.

He only returned to swimming in 2013 after an 18 month hiatus, something that Lisa says makes her son’s success even sweeter.

“It’s an amazing achievement, especially as he only joined GB Deaf Swimming Club last December.

“It’s the team for the future, that’s what they have based their selection on.”

Nathan will have to complete an individual training log each month in the run up to August so his head coach can monitor his progress.

Lisa added: “We always knew he would be chosen but we just didn’t realise it would be so soon – we’re so very proud of him.

“Since Nathan has been chosen we have become more aware of the barriers deaf people have in sport.

“Deaf athletes in other countries are treated on par with other Olympians and therefore this will mean that Nathan will be competing against people who have the best training, support and expertise.”

Nathan is required to self-fund the trip to Texas.

Anyone interested in sponsoring him or making a donation should send a cheque made payable to Nathan Young to the Globe's offices at:- Wirral Globe, Haymarket Court, Hinson Street, Birkenhead, CH41 5BX.