A TEENAGER who has refused to let his special educational needs stop him from reaching his martial arts goals have been hailed.

Rhys Bailey is a black belt student at B-smart Martial Arts at Westside Community Centre, in Paddock Road, South Ham, who is now working towards his advanced level recognition and is a junior leader at the club.

Rhys, 18, has special educational needs, but has found studying martial arts as a way to focus his mind via good discipline and hard work, and help younger club members.

The former Maple Ridge and Dove House pupil first stepped foot through the door of the club around eight years ago.

Dad Colin, from Brighton Hill, said: "We went along, explained where we were coming from in that he is on the spectrum and they were so welcoming. They said the discipline of martial arts will help him focus more.

"We wanted him to go along and enjoy himself first and foremost but it has been so good for him.

"His confidence has grown so much. He wants to join the navy, but a career has an instructor could be right in the long run.

"I'm very proud of him - I'm proud of his older brother (Jack, 21) and his younger sister (Charlotte, 16) as well of course because as a parent you are proud of all your children, but I'm so proud of Rhys."

Rhys is now studying at Queen Mary's College.

Writing online, Rhys's coach Brenhin Alimpic said: "Anyone who thinks Rhys would allow his disabilities to hold him back fail to consider his indomitable spirit.

"I would also like to give credit to Rhys’s parents who encourage him to face his challenges rather than rest on their laurels. Sadly, I see this all too often; parents whose own anxieties are the barriers to their children achieving confidence and happiness.

"I also have a child with disabilities, my daughter has Down's Syndrome, but rather than dwell on what she may or may not do, I am excited to wonder what she may achieve.

"It really is an honour to know this young man and I am grateful to have the opportunity."