Andrew Mullen, one of the UK’s leading Paralympic swimmers, has signed a sponsorship deal with award-winning family housebuilding firm Mactaggart & Mickel Group.

As an eight time European Champion and seven time World Champion, with two Paralympic Games under his belt, Andrew (18) is hotly tipped to be a medal hopeful in the qualifying trials for the Rio 2016 Paralympics.

Andrew, who is originally from Glasgow, has expressed how honoured he is to have the backing of one of Scotland’s leading housebuilders.

He commented: “Being born and raised in Glasgow makes this backing from Mactaggart & Mickel Group all the more special and closer to home for me.

“Sponsorship is so vital to competitive athletes and the support is really going to help me as I aim to fulfil my dream of competing at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games – I can’t thank Mactaggart & Mickel Group enough for that and look forward to having them by my side over the coming months.

“With the final year of the Paralympic cycle approaching and Rio 2016 set to be the biggest Paralympics to date, it’s a very exciting year in the world of sport. I want nothing more than to make the team and give my lifetime best performances so I can return home as a Paralympic champion.”

Ed Monaghan, chief executive of Mactaggart & Mickel Group, added: “It’s our privilege to support such a committed and talented swimmer like Andrew. We look forward to watching his progress in the run up to Rio 2016.”

Mactaggart & Mickel Group has a long history of supporting young talent, from local teams, schools and groups to its sponsorship of Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games hopeful, swimmer Jordan Hughes. It was also part of the City Legacy consortium which constructed the Commonwealth Games Athletes’ Village.

Having handcrafted homes since 1925, the company has evolved to maintain its place as the Scottish housebuilder with the highest reputation, leading the way in quality and innovation.

For more information on Mactaggart & Mickel Group please visit: www.macmicgroup.co.uk.