BRAVE Brad Oliver has been busy picking up a ‘Rock School’ merit and pushing his driving challenges to the next level, despite living with a debilitating heart condition.

The 13-year-old from Chudleigh has vasovagal syncope and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, which means his heart can stop at anytime.

He suffers horrendous headaches day and night, is allergic to most foods, can’t stand for long periods and reacts badly to temperature change.

Despite these daily health challenges Brad has just picked up awards for guitar playing and advanced driving.

His mum Katrina said: ‘His grandparents, especially June and Charlie Oliver from Chudleigh Knighton, would like to congratulate Brad on all he’s achieved and, as they say “too many to list, with health very poor and results excellent”, for gaining a merit in his recent Rock School exam, despite ending up in bed with his health by the end of the day.’

Brad has also been taking part in national young driver challenges, and last weekend he pushed his skills further with advanced driving techniques and motorway driving, at a centre in Moreton-in-Marsh.

Katrina said: ‘His challenge involved motorway driving, including joining and leaving a motorway, driving at 70mph and overtaking.

‘At the skills day he also demonstrated dynamic handling, including brake and avoid exercises; emergency braking slalom; and advance steering practice.

‘Advanced driving techniques included the use of ESP safety systems, ABS and an introduction to observation and hazard perception skills.

‘The day ended with an interactive presentation on safe driving and how to handle emergency situations with police advance driving experts.’

There was a test which Brad stormed, gaining a mark of 90 per cent and successfully completing the course to move up to the next level next year.

His mum added: ‘It just shows what you can do, even on half cylinders.

‘Watching all the dedicated youngsters taking part I have no doubt this will stand Brad in such good stead for the future.’

At this time of year Brad usually bakes up a Christmas cookie appeal. Sadly, due to many hospital appointments, he can’t do one this year. However, the plucky teenager has been campaigning for friends and family to support local food banks and would like to thank all those who stepped up to the challenge.

After Christmas Brad will be selling his baked goods in aid of Brompton Hospital, the national heart and lung hospital, to give thanks for their continued support.