A TALENTED young athlete is pursuing his Olympic dream and helping the stars of the future progress in sport.

Alistair Kemley, who suffers from autism, specialises in men's artistic gymnastics.

The 16-year-old from Wyndford has won competitions all over the country and is now going for gold at the Special Olympics in Sheffield in August.

He trains three days a week and volunteers a further three days a week at the Hub in Maryhill, Woodside Nursery and Bellahouston Sports Centre where he coaches youngsters.

Alistair, a former Evening Times community champion finalist, is a tenant of Cube housing association which has given him a donation towards his fundraising campaign to cover his fees, equipment and travel expenses as he travels to competitions across the country.

The teenager, who is a pupil at Abercorn Secondary, only took up artist gymnastics three years ago.

He said: "I always want to get better and I am looking forward to the Special Olympics.

"I get a lot from coaching too as it teaches you compassion and patience. I really enjoy working with young people but they can be wee rascals."

His mum admitted she is proud of everything Alistair has achieved.

She said: "He asked if he could go to gymnastics so I took him to a recreational class but within a week the teacher said he should move to a more advanced class.

"He has been junior Scottish champion and was a finalist in the Evening Times Community Champions youth category last year.

"Alistair really enjoys coaching. He has got a real knack with young people and they really respond to him.

"He has to fees to pay, equipment to buy, travel to pay for so we are grateful to Cube for their donation."

Dawn will travel to the Special Olympics later in the year with Alistair's dad Peter, sister Zoe, 21 and 18-year-old brother Pete.

Cube director David MacKenzie said: "We always want to increase opportunities for tenants and Alistair is a real inspiration.

"He gives so much back to his community by giving up his free time to volunteer and to coach young people so we are delighted to support Alistair and we wish him all the best."