AN East Renfrewshire swimmer has thrown his hat in the ring for the upcoming Paralympic Games in Tokyo.

Andrew Mullen, 24, has started training again to take part in the worldwide competition, with housebuilding firm Mactaggart & Mickel helping the young athlete with sponsorship.

“Due to Covid 19, the current climate has resulted in lots of uncertainty for athletes but Mactaggart & Mickel’s support has been a constant for me and is always greatly appreciated,” said Andrew.

“The way they have put their faith in me has meant so much because it takes a lot of stress away so I can focus on swimming – and the fact I know they believe in me will certainly spur me on.

“It could make all the difference. I know from experience that there is a very thin line between success and failure and I’ll give it all I’ve got to do my country proud in Tokyo by winning gold.”

Andrew, from Newton Mearns, is hoping to reach the Games in August.

They had been due to take place in 2020 but were postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The sports star has deferred a year from his Finance, Investment and Risk course at Glasgow Caledonian University to concentrate on swimming.

He said: “I’ve always worked incessantly at bettering myself and I feel more determined than ever to do well.

“I just need to stay disciplined and focus on the processes to make sure I give it my best shot.”

Joanne Casey, director of Mactaggart & Mickel, is cheering on The City of Glasgow Swim Team member as he goes for gold.

She said: “It’s great to know we’re making a real difference to Andrew and we’re confident he has what it takes to do Great Britain proud at the Paralympic Games.

“We’ll be cheering him all the way, hopefully to the top of the podium.”