WE have been impressed with the number of entries we have received so far for our Community Star Awards.

We realise how popular the awards are with our readers keen to highlight the very best of Sussex.

Today we turn our focus to someone who has defied the odds, sponsored by Thwaites MoT and Service Centre on the William Street Trading Estate, William Street, Portslade.

A spokesman said: “We sponsor this award as we feel as a company that individuals who excel should be recognised for their extraordinary achievements.”

Already in the running is a swimmer who has overcome her disability to win four medals at the Cerebral Palsy World Games.

Fabienne Andre, 21, of Brighton, represented England and won one bronze and three silver medals at the games in Sant Cugat, Barcelona, in August.

She won silver for the 100m and 400m freestyle, and 100m backstroke, and a bronze for the 50m freestyle.

Fabienne said although she is living with cerebral palsy it has not stopped her from pursuing her passion.

She said: “I was selected to represent the country in November last year.

“I was very nervous when I started but we had such an amazing and supportive team.

“It was an enjoyable experience.

“I trained very hard for the games and it’s a wonderful achievement.

“I was diagnosed with cerebral palsy when I was three.

“It does affect my day to day life because my balance is affected and I limp.

“When I was 14, I started hydrotherapy.

“The therapist recommended me to take up swimming.

“While I may be limited in some sports, I was able to find freedom and power when I swim.

“I joined the Mid Sussex Marlins swimming club in Burgess Hill, and people there told me about the Cerebral Palsy World Games.”

Fabienne then set her sights on becoming a member of Team England.

She joined local and national swimming competitions before she was selected to represent her country.

The physiotherapy student at Brunel University hopes to inspire others never to let your disability become a hindrance in achieving your dreams.