A WIDNES student has been selected to represent Great Britain in the Special Olympics World Summer Games 2015.

Bobbie Wright, aged 19, who has autism, is one of only four golfers in the country chosen to compete in Los Angeles.

He will be joining 7,000 athletes from 177 countries and 500,000 spectators are expected to watch.

His mum, Paula, aged 41, a NHS health office manager, from Dundalk Road, said: “I am very proud of him.

“He only started playing golf in 2010. As soon as he picked up a golf club, he was just a natural.

“He is very passionate about it and puts a lot of effort into it.”

Former Ashley School pupil Bobbie had lessons at Sutton Fields in Runcorn and now practises at Mersey Valley Golf Club almost every day.

He has competed across England, Ireland and Wales in various championships.

Paula said: “I know how hard it has been for him. It has given him a lot of confidence.”

Riverside College student Bobbie said: “I am really happy about it. I love how you’ve got a different challenge all the time.

“No golf course is the same. It requires a lot of dedication and practice.

“I would love to teach children and perhaps turn professional one day.”

Bobbie’s sister, Bethany, aged 21, is studying maths and statistics at Glasgow University.

His dad, Robert, aged 42, a field technical surveyor at Semex in Runcorn, has been selected as a coach for the games.

They each have to raise £2,500 for their trip to America.

Bobbie’s family has funded all his previous competitions and plans to do bag packs.

They are appealing to local businesses for sponsors.

Anyone who can help can call Paula on 07515 558686.