Hynd, who swam to London 2012 glory in the SM8 200 metres individual medley event at the Paralympic Games three years ago, spoke to children at Sutherland House Autism School in Nottingham in a bid to inspire the next generation of athletes.

His visit was held as part of the school’s diversity week scheme, an awareness project with the message “it’s okay to be different” which aims to help disabled children overcome obstacles by taking up sport.

The 21-year-old, who recently claimed double gold at the International Paralympic Committee Swimming World Championships in home water in Glasgow, brought along his extensive medal collection to show the children at the school.

“It’s nice for me to come and share some of the difficulties I’ve had,” Hynd said to Notts TV.

“It’s good for some of the kids to engage with my journey and they can take what they want from the questions they’ve asked.

“Hopefully they can apply my answers to their own lives.

“These kids can apply what I tell them to what they are doing.

“They might think that things are challenging but that’s what life is about, it’s about pushing and challenging yourself.

“That’s what sport is all about - it’s about legacy and building on London 2012 to inspire the next generation to get involved.”

His visit was also heralded by the school’s deputy head Ann Stewart, who added: “Ollie’s support with our diversity work has a big impact on the children.”

Hynd announced himself onto the global stage with two titles at the World Championships in Montreal, Canada, which came after he had struck gold in the S8 200m individual medley at the 2011 European Championships in Berlin.

He is expected to compete at next year’s Paralympics in Rio, which take place from September 7 to 18.

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