Tennis champ Alfie Hewett joins Easton College sports challenge

Alfie Hewett praised the work of the British Inspiration Trust, whose founder, Phil Packer (third left), also attended the event

Wheelchair tennis star Alfie Hewett revealed how disability sport gave him a new lease of life, as he encouraged students to try new activities.

The world doubles champion put students through their paces as they gave his sport and others a go at Easton College, near Norwich.

The event was the end of a charity challenge, which included 24 Olympic and Paralympic sports over two months.

"There should be no barriers in sport," said Hewett, who lives in Norfolk.

The 26-year-old, ranked second in the world in singles, was born with a hip disorder which reduces his mobility.

He showed students how he uses his specialist wheelchair to get round the court and gave them the chance to try out a duplicate chair.

'Feel like myself again'

"My main reason for getting into sport was that I was struggling with my condition and, mentally, I found that difficult," he told BBC Radio Norfolk.

"For me, getting into disability sport and wheelchair tennis was a turning point in my life.

"It gave a new lease of it and I was able to feel like myself again."

Students got the chance to try out wheelchair tennis with the world champion

He praised the British Inspiration Trust (Brit), which supports young people's mental health charities, for encouraging colleges and universities to run the Brit Challenge to boost wellbeing and inclusivity.

Students from Easton College, City College Norwich and Paston College in North Walsham had tried out sports at each campus since the beginning of February, all while raising money for Brit.

Activities included archery, basketball, breakdancing, equestrian events, golf, hockey, kayaking, table tennis and volleyball.

The colleges also carried out 24 acts of kindness in the community.

"What the charity does nationally is huge - supporting young people, students, staff and volunteers with their mental health and wellbeing, and encouraging them to get into fitness and sport," added Hewett.

"This event is really powerful and I'm certainly learning a lot."

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