AN Eastleigh College student's acrobatic skills have landed him a top place in a nationwide contest.

Matt Flye, 17, competed in The British Championships of Sports Acrobatics in Stoke on Trent and won third place in the junior mixed pairs.

He said: "I was really pleased that we managed to get a medal because the competition was tough."

The two and half minute routine consisted of three balance and three tempo moves which were performed to a high enough standard to win the medal.

Matt is currently in his first year of studying for his BTEC National Diploma in Sport at Eastleigh College and competes on a regular basis in his spare time. His partner in the junior mixed pairs was Cassie Beale, of Southampton Gymnastics Club, who is still at school.

They recently competed at Puurs in Belgium for the Flanders Acro Cup with competitors from all over the world and will soon attend trials for the European Championships to be held in September. For details and to enrol on courses at the college call 023 8091 1005.