AN inspirational student who bounced back after suffering a brain and spinal infection has been rewarded for his bravery.

Thomas Reid has been awarded an Air Commandants commendation after being named as the Best Male Cadet in Thames Valley Wing.

Young Thomas was recently awarded the role of Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet for Berkshire for 2018/19 at the Lord lieutenant’s Ceremony.

The LVS Ascot pupil was left almost completely paralysed in April 2017 and was given a slim chance of making a full recovery.

But he has fought against all odds, achieving huge success in his GCSEs and undertaking a range of sporting challenge.

He said: "My long term goal is to become a sports teacher and return to the RAF Air Cadets as uniformed staff as this is very much part of my family life.

"I have developed a passion for teaching aviation studies. The principles behind what makes a huge machine able to become airborne is fascinating to me and I love sharing this knowledge with junior cadets.

"I plan in the future to return to the cadets so I can ensure that other young people in the future get the same opportunities I have been given."

He achieved all of his 10 GCSEs while in hospital with the help of LVS Ascot and returned to his position with the squadron within eight weeks of his illness.

In the summer, Thomas raised more than £1,000 for the team at the John Radcliffe Hospital by undertaking a 13,000 ft skydive, jumping with his Physiotherapist.

His mother Melanie added: "Thomas is a very active person with rowing being his passion from a young age with a number of wins under his belt prior to injury.

"He was fortunate to row at the British Championships in 2016 with his crew winning the B final in a very close race.

"Since his illness, he has fought his way back to fitness and now trains with his friends at Reading rowing Club four times a week and gives time to coach novice rowers."