The 18-year-old Team GB member, who has cerebral palsy, is currently ranked sixth in the world for his disability and hopes that a trip to the USA to be fitted for a new competition wheelchair will help him break into the top three in front of a home crowd.

But before that trip can take place, Matthew needs to raise in the region of £6,000 to cover travel costs and the price of the wheelchair itself.  

So, inspired by their friend's determination, the class of 20 Level 3 Sports Performance and Excellence students from the College took to the rowing machines to row the equivalent distance of the English Channel, which is approximately 50 miles there and back, to support the London 2012 hopeful.

Tutor Kevin Traynor said: “When we heard about Matthew’s bid, the class wanted to help however they could. The group organised themselves into six teams and rowed individually in 10 minute stints, with the aim of completing the challenge inside three hours and raising as much money as possible.”

The group smashed their target by completing the row in two hours and 20 minutes. They have so far raised in excess of £550, with money still coming in.

To donate money for Matthew or to offer sponsorship or fundraising ideas, contact Sarah Towns at the College on 0113 284 6411 or email Sarah.Towns@leedscitycollege.ac.uk.

By Stuart Appleby