Jonathan Morris (22), who grew up in Malvern Avenue, and whose family still live in the town, has been given permission from the Army to take time off from the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment to pursue his dream of winning a gold medal in judo.

Jonathan was introduced to the sport at the age of six by his dad and coach Mr John Morris, of Ingham Street, Padiham.

Mr Morris said his son - of whom he is "beyond proud" - has won hundreds of medals from competitions in Britain and across Europe and has every confidence he will succeed at the Olympics.

"It's a long road. To be an Olympian you are one in a million. Judo is not one of those sports where you can come along and just be a champion. Jonathan didn't win anything for the first two years after he started judo but kept going and kept going. He is where he is from sheer tenacity and a will to succeed."

Jonathan, who trained at Burnley and Pendle Judo Clubs, is a four times British judo champion in different age groups and was last year crowned British Army Champion, a title he defended earlier this year.

The former St Augustine's pupil is based in Kent, at the home of the British Judo Association where he trains with other Olympic hopefuls.
His gruelling schedule means between six and eight hours for six days a week of intensive exercise but it also means spending long periods away from wife Natalie and sons Brandon (2) and Oliver (1) who live in Army accommodation in Bury.

Jonathan said Natalie (23) had been a great source of support. "She is massively proud of me. I wouldn't have been able to do it if it wasn't for her support."

And the sacrifices he has had to make have made him all the more determined to do well.

But despite the young soldier's determination, his time away from work and the need to take part in as many competitions as possible also mean he is faced with a huge financial burden, which may threaten his chances of success.

Jonathan has received help from the Fitness Factory at the Burnham Business Centre in Burnley, who have agreed to provide track-suits and other clothes.

Mr Morris said: "There are not many Olympians from Padiham. I have spoken to Padiham town councillor Coun. Bob Clark, who has an interest in sport and we think Jonathan is the first from the town."

Any individuals or businesses who want to get involved in sponsoring Jonathan should call Mr Morris on 07871019764.