TEENAGER Matthew Blacker, from Calne, is one of three students to receive an Educational Award from national friendly society the Oddfellows, to help him achieve his dream of working in the sports industry.

Matthew, 19, a former pupil at King Edward’s School in Bath, was awarded the society’s £900 per academic year grant because of his strong academic, extra-curricular and citizenship achievements. The grant will be used to help further his studies at Swansea University.

Matthew said: “I am thrilled to receive this award. I’ve always had a passion for business, so getting the opportunity to study a Business Management degree will help me to develop a greater understanding of how successful brands operate on a local, national and global level."

He added: “Eventually I would like to go into the sports business industry. Attending university will provide me a huge stepping stone in helping me achieve this. I would personally like to thank the Oddfellows for supporting me in pursuing my career goals.”

Each year, three Oddfellows Educational Awards are granted to members studying a first degree. Applications are submitted anonymously.

The Oddfellows’ chairman (Grand Master) William Henchliff, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting Matthew during this important milestone in his life. We understand that university can be costly for any student, and so our Educational Award is designed to give an extra hand to its recipients. We wish Matthew the best of success with his studies and have confidence that he will achieve his dream career.”