GYMNAST Brinn Bevan will be fulfilling a promise to his late father Jamie when he begins his Olympic campaign in Rio today.

The former Deanes School pupil told his dad on his deathbed at Southend Hospital back in 2009 that he would one day make it to the very top of the sport.

And Bevan – who has the date of his dad’s death tattooed close to his heart – is delighted to have achieved his ultimate ambition.

“When my dad was on his deathbed I promised him that I would get to the Olympics and I’m proud and happy to have done it,” said the 19-year-old.

“I told him I would do my absolute best to get a medal and that’s exactly what I’ll be doing.

“He would be very proud of what I’ve achieved. It’s just a shame he can’t be here to see it.”

Bevan will be hoping to help Great Britain get through to the team final.

But he has shocked even himself by recovering from the double leg break he suffered late last year in time to compete in Rio.

“It was a big surprise for me to be in the team,” said Bevan.

“In November last year I had a big accident and I’ve been fighting to get back ever since.

“I could always see Rio in the distance but I was so happy when I found out I was in the team.”

And the call up came just eight months after the teenager was left fearing for his future in the sport.

“Right at the start when I got the injury I was unsure what the future held for me and some people said my career could be over,” said Bevan.

“But when people tell you can’t do it it gives you that little bit of extra determination to want to prove them wrong.

“When I first broke my leg doctors, nurses and coaches said it was my dream over and a no go for Rio.

“But I’ve been working hard and I’m so happy to be back.

“I guess I’ve always had that mental toughness but you don’t really know how strong you are until you have to be.

“My mum and my coach plus my team-mates have all been a huge help along with the medical staff at British Gymnastics.”

With their support Bevan has worked his way to Brazil, where he will compete alongside team-mate Max Whitlock.

And the youngster is already well accustomed to the surroundings. “I’ve been out to Rio twice before, once for a training camp and once for the Olympic Test event,” said Bevan.

“I know what to expect and that helps.

“I’ve got a feel for the lay-out and how hot and humid it’s going to be.

“Now I just want to get out there and give it my absolute best.”