Jamie McGregor (18), a member of Bo'ness Amateur Swimming Club, is currently studying for an HND in sport and exercise science at Forth Valley College, Falkirk.

He has won a scholarship to Lindenwood University, St Louis, Missouri, where he will spend four years.

"I won't be seeing much of Scotland for the next four years but I'm looking forward to the experience," he said this week.

Whilst in the States he will be studying for a degree in physical education as well as honing his swimming skills.

Already this year Jamie has knocked nearly a second off his best time in the 100 metres front crawl and exactly a second off his best time in the 50m back crawl.

Jamie, who lives in Blair Avenue with his parents Elaine and Robert, brother Jack (15) and sister Ailidh (13), said: "Bo'ness Amateur Swimming Club really helped improve my swimming since I joined a few years ago and having it so close by in my home town helps in terms of training times."

Alistair Calder, head coach of Bo'ness Amateur Swimming Club, said: "I am delighted with the progress Jamie has made this year.

"The results he is achieving are testament to the effort he has put into his training."

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