A seven-year-old double amputee has conquered his fear of water to become a "shining example of determination" after learning to swim.

Oscar Connor from Rickmansworth spent the first year of his life in a wheelchair after being born without any shin bones in his legs.

He had his legs amputated at the age of two so that he could walk with the help of prosthetics.

After 12 operations during the first few years of his life, Oscar began learning to swim a year ago, but was initially held back by fear.

Oscar and his teacher, Ella.Oscar and his teacher, Ella. (Image: Everyone Active) His mum Kayleigh Wilson said: "Oscar has always wanted to learn how to swim, but at first he was extremely nervous about entering the water.

“Despite his young age, he was determined to overcome his fear and instead let the excitement of learning to swim drive him, which is ultimately how he conquered his nervousness."

Oscar persevered and has now become a confident swimmer who uses his time in the pool as a way of easing the pain from his prosthetics.

Kayleigh heaped praise on his instructors at the William Penn Leisure Centre in Mill End, managed by Everyone Active, saying: “Oscar’s swim teachers have been truly amazing. They are kind and understanding about his limitations and have always encouraged him, which really shows as he is now so confident in the water.

“Swimming is such an important life skill, and I am so grateful to the teachers at William Penn for enabling Oscar to learn how to swim."

She continued: "We went to Cyprus during the summer holidays and Oscar was amazing in the swimming pool and the ocean. We created some core family memories – something that wouldn’t have been possible if Oscar couldn’t swim.”

Oscar's newfound confidence hasn't stopped with the pool - he now has his sights set on becoming a footballer, with mum Kayleigh describing him is "a little superstar".

Ellie-Ann Booth, contract swim manager for Everyone Active across Three Rivers, said: “Oscar is a shining example of how learning to swim can be truly life-changing.

"Swimming is not only a lifesaving skill, but it can enable increased confidence, fun with friends in the water and, ultimately, improved mental and physical wellbeing.”