Keighley’s Ryan Kirby has been picked to represent England in the Mencap European Learning Disability Championships in Switzerland.

The 20-year-old, who has Down’s Syndrome, was one of the 15 who were selected out of 75 hopefuls following trials at Warwick University at the weekend.

Ryan will join up with the squad for a training camp in Bridgend in April ahead of the Geneva-based championships the following month.

He said: “I’m very excited to be picked to play for England and I can’t wait to go to Geneva. I think it will be good fun.”

The Craven College student has honed his skills playing for Bradford Disability Football Club and will become their fifth member to gain national honours.

Treasurer Paul Squires has seen Ryan develop over the eight years he has been with the club.

He said: “I am not surprised at Ryan’s call-up at all as he is a very enthusiastic footballer. His participation level is excellent.”

Squires said Ryan had a good eye for goal, adding: “He likes to play striker and has a very hard shot. He has scored some spectacular goals and likes to celebrate them in his own inimitable way.”

Squires is proud that Ryan is the latest to gain national recognition and said: “The selection process is quite stiff so to get through is quite an achivement for Ryan and our other players who made it.”

Bradford Disability Club train on Sunday mornings (9.45) at Nab Wood Sports Centre and run teams at junior and senior level, featuring males and females.

Contact Squires for more details on 01274 590387.