A SIXTY-year-old man who has learning difficulties is becoming something of a role model at Trinity Sports and Leisure Centre in Bridgwater after overcoming his fear of the water to learn to swim.

Pete Mynott, who also suffers from severe anxiety and asthma, has impressed staff at the centre with his determination to overcome his health problems to learn to swim.

He joined the Strawberry Club for people with learning difficulties and disabilities at Trinity Sports and Leisure Centre a year ago and started swimming lessons five months ago.

Nick Lovett, general manager of operations at 1610, told the Mercury: “Pete was very anxious when he started lessons but now he has overcome his fears and with a lot of support from staff has learned to swim.

“His employers and GP have all commented on how this has made a significant difference to his health and well-being and that he is so much more confident.

“We are all very proud of him and he is an active member of the centre, attending six-seven days a week, taking part in group activity classes and at the gym.

“I am sure he will inspire others to take up new challenges.”

Pete, who works at Travis Perkins in Bridgwater, is now learning to dive and enjoys keeping fit and health at the leisure centre.