TEENAGER Ismail Patel is a true inspiration.

The 16-year-old Sharples High School pupil has Pompe disease, which has left him in a wheelchair and sometimes uses a computer to communicate through, although is able to speak unaided too.

But he refused to let his condition stop him from achieving and was celebrating his GCSE results with the rest of his class.

He achieved three Bs, which included one in his triple sciences, one C and also a grade A equivalent in digital application.

His achievement is made all the greater given he could only attend school for four days a week, with one day undergoing medical treatment for the condition which causes an enzyme deficiency.

When Ismail was born, the prognosis was that he was given a very short time to live but he has gone on to achieve a super set of GCSEs results and is looking to the future.

Ismail, who also play football for Bolton Bullets, said: "I am very happy with my results.

"I will be going to Bolton College to study business.

"I have worked very hard and the teachers have been very supportive."

Liz Kaminska, from the school, said: "We are delighted and massively proud of Ismail.

"He has shown that having a disability does not stop you from achieving and that you can do it."

Mum Shirin added: "He has worked so hard in his life and always been determined to achieve.

"I'm so happy and proud of his results."