The swimmer came away with gold medals for the 100m and 200m breaststroke as well as seven other medals at the Northamptonshire Counties Swimming Championships which culminated at Corby International Pool this weekend (March 18^th).

Matthew said: “I was really pleased with my performance and so glad that all my hard work paid off.

“I really enjoy the competing side of things and think it is a great sport to be involved in.”

The student, who has been swimming for just three years, trains seven days a week and is a member of Northampton Swimming Club.

Twice a week he starts the day at 4am and is out of bed by 6.30am on a Sunday to make it to the pool for a training session.

To make sure he has enough energy for the intensive trainings sessions he follows a strict carbohydrate packed diet.

Following his weekend’s success Matthew is now keen to get the time needed to qualify for the national competition held in August.

After setting ten personal bests during the County Championships he is well placed to get there.

He said: “My target for this year is to reach the National Championships and ultimately I would like to win a medal at national level.”