A YOUNG swimmer has been honoured by Dorchester Town Council for his medal haul – and dedication to the sport.

Swimming instructor and Dorchester town councillor, Janet Hewitt praised Sam Craddock and said: "He trains very hard although he doesn't always find it easy, but he tries again and again.

"Sam is a dedicated young man who always gives his best and takes it all in his stride."

He was trained by Cllr Hewitt's daughter, Andrea.

Sam's certificate.

Sam's award was presented with a certificate of achievement by Mayor Cllr Robin Potter who praised his commitment and determination to the applause of council members.

The award marks his five gold medals and one silver at the annual Downs Syndrome British Championships held at Crawley.

Sam, aged 17, lives in Dorchester and is a pupil at Westfield College in Weymouth where he will start his second year in the sixth form in September. He trains three times a week with the West Dorset Swimming Club at the Dorchester Sports Centre and also attends Para swim training workshops run occasionally in places such as Taunton and Exeter.