THIRSK White Horse swimmer Jason Smith was just three tenths of a second outside qualifying for the final of the 50m backstroke at the Scottish senior championships.

Jason, who was born in Dunfermline, was unlucky to have Britain's top swimmers competing as it was the last chance for them to qualify for the world championships.

After being out of swimming for six years, Jason decided to have another go at it and after only one year back in the water his times have come down considerably.

He took the Yorkshire title in the 100m backstroke and has done remarkably well as he has to fit in training around his work as one of the ground staff at Ripon City Golf Club.

After getting up early to do a day's work, he travels to the gym to do his strength work before preparing his evening meal.

Then it's off to the club for his swimming training, which he doesn't finish until 9.30pm.

Jason (pictured above) also contested the 100m and 200m backstroke in Scotland, once again just finishing outside a final spot.