Keith Purcell is learning disabled but his strength and artistic flair have brought him national attention.

This week his passions - keeping fit and art - have jostled for his time as his preparations for the Special Olympics went on hold so he could travel to London to see his art work on display at the Tate Modern.

The shy 33-year-old hopes to win a gold medal in power lifting at the Special Olympic National Summer Games in Glasgow next week and has been training four times a week and eating a diet high in protein and carbohydrates.

The games are for people with learning disabilities and attract more than 2,500.

Mr Purcell, who lives in Worthing, won a gold medal in Cardiff in 2001 and he hopes to do even better this time.

He said: "I get a buzz from lifting weights. I like looking good and when I see other people lifting weights I want to be able to beat them.

"I was about 10st last time but I'm really toned now. I've been bulking up and now I'm 13st which should help." He said he hoped to lift 180 kg - more than 28st - in the dead lift from the floor, which is 20 kg more than last time.

Mr Purcell attends daily sessions at the Grace Eyre Foundation in Avondale Road, Hove, where volunteer James Kerr has been co-ordinating his training.

Mr Kerr said: "In the field of learning disabilities Keith is an exceptional all-round athlete who is not only dedicated to gym work but also distance running, swimming, football and badminton. The result shows in his physique.

"The Special Olympics are the zenith of sporting achievement for people with learning disabilities. They are the equivalent to the ordinary Olympics."

Mr Purcell is also gifted in art and a self-portrait was in a Mencap exhibition at the Tate Modern this week.

He went there on Monday and said: "I really wanted to go to the gym for training but I'm glad I went to the gallery instead. Everyone really liked it."

Hayley Gue, from the foundation, said: "Keith's work has been on display here many times and people are always very impressed. He very much wants to be seen as his own person in his own right. He can feel pride and a sense of achievement."