HIS recovery so far has been nothing short of phenomenal.

And as the countdown for 2012 begins, Ben Clark’s ambitions of making the Paralympics are becoming ever more realistic.

The 20-year-old swimmer, who has his sight set on the Olympic Games next year, has made astounding progress since a freak diving accident at Sandbanks beach last summer left him unable to walk.

But thanks to his dogged determination and positive mentality afforded to all great sportsmen, Ben will be competing in his first competition since the accident, when he takes part in the Inter Spinal Unit Games in Stoke in April.

He will be taking part alongside other patients from Salisbury Hospital’s spinal unit and as well as swimming he will also get the chance to try his luck at other sports.

“Even before the accident I really enjoyed all different kinds of sport”, Ben said.

“But I’ve been told I’ve got a bit of a talent for table tennis so I’m going to give that a go.”

The inspirational swimmer, who amazed doctors with his fast-paced progress, has also moved into his own two-bedroom flat in Poole recently.

He said: “It’s amazing. Now I’ve got a bit more independence and am enjoying learning to do things for myself.”

Ben swims three times a week at the Dolphin swimming pool and is in the gym twice a week. And soon, thanks to fundraising by Ben, his family and friends, he will be able to get about in his new custom-designed wheelchair.

Mum, Pauline Clark said: “We’ve got a lot of people to thank, particularly Poole Council. Now we’re looking for someone to sponsor Ben. Ideally he needs a personal trainer.”

The family is also hoping to raise money for a specialist cycling machine, and a personal assistant.

• To contact them go to chairsforchampions.co.uk