DURSLEY'S Andy Sprague has become an Oxford blue for swimming in his first year at the University.

He received the prestigious accolade after representing Oxford University and helping them beat Cambridge in the varsity match.

The 19-year-old beat his personal best time, getting the award by 800th of a second in the breast stroke, so he was understandably delighted with the achievement.

Sprague said: "It was great, not many first years get to become an Oxford blue."

He swam for the Dursley dolphins from the age of six before representing Stroud.

At junior level, he won a county gold medal, and came 7th in a race against the best in the South West.

However, the youngster has no ambitions to take up his swimming seriously, as he enjoys rugby more.

He is currently the captain of Christchurch college at the University, and aims to get in the University's under-21 team next year.