Hutton Mount fencer Matthew O'Connell has been enjoying the fruits of his dedication to the sport.

The 14-year-old took part in the Junior Home International event earlier this month, helping the England Under 16 Sabre team to victory, and receiving a gold medal for his efforts.

This achievement follows a number of notable milestones in Matthew's fencing career which include the Sherwood U15 sabre championship, the Eastern Region U16 sabre championship, the Bristol U15 sabre championship (Leon Paul), and fencing for Essex in the Surrey Challenge Men's Team Sabre Event.

Matthew has also travelled abroad this year, taking part in international events such as the Moneteau U15 in France, the Munich U17 in Germany and the Pisa U17 in Italy.

Matthew is pictured above wearing his official England tracksuit.

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