West Berkshire Olympian backs free flu jab campaign

Mears is among those at greatest risk from flu after his spleen was removed during a life-saving operation in 2009.
The 19-year-old (pictured) was left fighting for his life after contracting Epstein Barr virus and rupturing his spleen during the Australian Youth Olympic Festival three years ago.
However, the Burghfield Common man made a remarkable recovery and

finished fifth in the men’s three metre springboard synchro event with teammate Nicholas Robinson-Baker at Olympics this summer.
He also broke British records in the individual final, in which he finished ninth - the best result in the event from a Britain since 1984.
Mears is backing the NHS flu jab campaign and has already received his annual jab at his doctor’s surgery, Mortimer Surgery, Victoria Road, Mortimer.
“This summer I fulfilled my dreams of becoming an Olympian. Being at

greater risk of serious complications from flu, the flu jab for me is a must and helps to make sure I stay protected, well and able to continue to follow my dreams,” the former Willink School pupil said.
To make an appointment to get your jab contact your GP, or for more information visit www.nhs.uk/flu
For more on this story read this Thursday’s Newbury Weekly News.