FOR Thomas Bratton, wearing a hearing aid is just something he does on a daily basis.

He also lip reads, plays piano and euphonium to a high standard, and has aspirations to try a church organ.

Now the Corbridge Middle School pupil’s ability to overcome hearing loss has been recognised by the National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS).

Thomas is one of just six youngsters who are the stars of a newly published NDCS short film, which proves that deafness need not be a barrier to success and achievement.

In the film, which is steadily becoming a hit on YouTube, the bright 10-year-old from Kiln Pit Hill is joined by other children and teenagers with hearing problems, who have excelled in music or dance.

“It was an exciting thing to do,” said Thomas.

“I love playing music and I like to show people what I can do.”

Thomas secured his place on the film after submitting a video of his music exploits to the NDCS.

He is the only North-East representative in the video, entitled Raising the Bar , which was filmed at Birmingham Repertory Theatre in May.

In it, Thomas speaks about his deafness, and specifically declares that it won’t stop him from living life to the full.

Thomas suffers from moderate hearing loss in his right ear, and also has difficulties with his left ear, particularly during the winter months.

A series of ear infections as a baby led to a perforation in Thomas’s left ear drum.

Mum Lucy Bratton said: “Thomas is still prone to ear infections, and he can’t get water in his ears.

“He wears a hearing aid, but this amplifies background noise, and he sometimes has to lip read so he can fully understand what people are saying to him.

“There’s a lot of self learning with the lip reading, but he’s just got on with it.

“His hearing is better on some days than others.”

Ear plugs and a specialist head band must be worn if Thomas ventures into the swimming pool.

Fortunately however, his favourite hobbies keep the youngster’s head well above water.

He discovered a passion for the piano just three years ago, and it soon became apparent he was a natural musician.

By Christmas, he hopes to have completed grade four on the piano syllabus.

Lucy added: “Thomas is very much aware of his situation, but although his hearing loss is moderate, he has always had the determination to make the most of what he can hear, and what he can do.

“The NDCS wanted to find music and dance stars with hearing problems, and it was great when Thomas was selected to appear in the video.

“I hope he can help to inspire other youngsters and indeed adults with similar hearing challenges.”

Thomas enjoys school, where he takes a keen interest in maths and English, as well as music.

He is a member of Whittonstall Community Band, and is an avid reader, with Oliver Twist high on a list of favourites.

Thomas’s big sister Evelyn (12) suffers from mild hearing loss, and narrowly missed out on a place in the video herself.

He also has a brother, Samuel (14) and a younger sister, Polly (7).

View the video below.

Another video of Thomas playing the piano and euphonium is below.

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