TALENTED Harvey Bancks is busy learning his lines and rehearsing for his school’s big summer production.

The 11-year-old can be found with the rest of the cast at Walmsley Church’s Parish Hall twice a week after school as they prepare to take the stage next month.

Watching him, it is difficult to believe the Walmsley CE Primary School pupil is profoundly deaf and is working that bit harder than the rest in readiness for the production of Peter Pan, in which he has been given a principle part.

Harvey will be playing Chief Tiger Bamboo.

He said: “I’m really excited. I auditioned for Mr Smee but am excited about this part.

"We are all working hard.

“We are a little bit nervous but the audience can expect an action packed show.”

Harvey said he refuses to let his deafness stop him from doing anything.

“I’m very proud I have got the part,” he said, “I just go for it.”

Harvey had cochlear implants at 18 months and then again at seven years old to help him hear.

Proud mum Lisa, who lives with her family in Bromley Cross, said: “Acoustically the room has to be good, too much noise is not good and when he is outside he cannot tell where something is coming from, like cars.”

She added: “I’m so proud of Harvey. He came home and said he has got the part of Chief Tiger Bamboo.

“He has appeared in productions but this is the first time he has had a principle part.

“He has been fine, he is learning his lines through repetition. Where we take listening for granted, he has to concentrate, he has to make a concerted effort.

“ The school is aware of his needs and have been wonderful and his friends are great with him, they have been with him since reception.

“His brother Oliver, who is 15, is a great support to him and the family.”

At home Harvey removes his equipment to help him hear so he can use sign language to his dad, Malcolm, who is also deaf.

Mrs Bancks said “He inspires me all the time.”

Now Mrs Bancks is hoping Harvey’s latest achievement will inspires others who are deaf.

At the age of eight he modelled for Bolton Wanderers and appeared in the club's catalogue.

She said: "If any parent wants any information or support they can email me at lisa.bancks@me.com."