From bikes to bullies, this has been quite a ride!

Teenager Burt on why cerebral palsy will never beat his determination

- NEAL KEELING

AT the age of 19, Burt Rickman has written his autobiography. But it is a story which should inspire many, as Burt has had to live with a disability and endured bullying at school.

Yet he has found a resilience to make the most of life. He was diagnosed with cerebral palsy in his early years but has already written his first book, mastered a musical instrument, and become a gymnastics instructor, through sheer strength and determination.

The former Cadishead Primary and Culcheth High School student's book is called "No Half Measures" and is the "warts and all" record of his life so far, including being bullied at high school and struggling to deal with his condition.

Pragmatic Burt said: "My cerebral palsy is an obvious issue, but I don't think I have it too bad and I know people that it has affected a lot worse. However, it does mean that I have to try three or four times harder to succeed at what I want to learn and do.

"High School was difficult, I was always quite small and with the added cerebral palsy I was an easy target for 'the bullies. But since then, I have had a bit of a growth spurt and my confidence and self-belief in what I can achieve is what matters most."