A basketball player from Great Yarmouth has written a book designed to inspire children to “dream big”.

Norwich Evening News: Patrick Manifold hopes his new book will inspire children to dream big. Picture: @PatrickManifoldPatrick Manifold hopes his new book will inspire children to dream big. Picture: @PatrickManifold (Image: Archant)

Patrick Manifold, 31, has competed professionally in leagues across the world, living in seven different countries across three continents in the past five years.

On top of this, the former St Mary’s Primary School pupil has founded his own company, Manifold Motivation - and when he is not on the court, the 6ft 7in athlete is often giving motivational speeches or providing personal coaching, earning himself a sizeable social media following.

Now, Mr Manifold is back in his hometown, fresh off the back of a season in Italy and the launch of his third book, Be All You Can Be: The Cool Kids Guide To Success In School and Life.

Mr Manifold said the timing of the launch is not coincidental.

He said: “When I heard about Great Yarmouth being the least active community in all of England I thought this is something these kids need to hear.

“I really want to push this book while I’m home because the kids here perhaps don’t have the same opportunities as other places, but they should do.”

Mr Manifold, who went to Notre Dame High School, used his nieces and nephews as soundboards during the writing process and he believes the book could really resonate with eight to 16-year-olds.

He said: “It’s got three key parts. Firstly, I’m trying to teach them that things like hard work, perseverance and dedication will help them to be successful no matter what they want to do.

“I’m also trying to inspire them to dream big. I got laughed at for having my dream and I wanted to create something that would open the door of possibility for them.

“I want to get across that it is important to be a good, kind person too, because that often gets left out.”

Mr Manifold, who will be heading back to his base in Canada in a few weeks, is keen to visit schools to promote his message while he is in the town, free of charge.

He also has 100 signed copies of the book available for the discounted price of £8.

To get your singed copy or arrange a school visit, email manifoldmotivation@live.com or get in touch via social media, @patrickmanifold.

The book is also available to order from Amazon.