PARALYMPICS hopeful Andy Lewis is heading to Australia this week to compete for qualification points to book his place at the Games in Rio this summer.

The 33-year-old from Lydney has spent the winter preparing for the Paralympics in September.

He said: “I have been training very hard over the winter improving my swim and bike. I have suffered a few injuries and it has not been plain sailing but I am now back on form, ready to put the Forest on the map in Rio.

“It has been very hard the last few months being away from home every week leaving my wife Bekki at home with my two children to deal with all the family things but I am hoping that what I do on a daily basis inspires, not just my children but many others who see me running around Lydney or riding my bike.”

Andy has been driving to Bristol everyday to swim as well as visiting local schools to promote the importance of a healthy lifestyle and his sport.

He said: “The main reason I have to train away each week is I have really struggled to access the facilities I need at home. As much as I would have liked to swim at home in Lydney this has not been possible due to the restricted access of the pools.”

Andy is currently ranked fifth in the world and he hopes the race in Australia will move him up the rankings.

He added: “After that it will be back to training to prepare for Japan and then back to Europe to take on the world’s best in the European Championships which carry big points towards Rio.

“It is all becoming very real now; I am now sponsored by some very large organisations and brands but also some local companies too including Severn Valley Cycles.

“I would like to include my well wishes and good luck wishes to all those taking part in the Forest of Dean First Tri on April 24.”