A STIRLING coach, who guided swimming champion Duncan Scott, has received a top accolade.

Steven Tigg, 33, is being hailed as one of Scotland's exciting new wave of trainers and received the High Performance Coach of the Year award from sportscotland.

Under his guidance, celebrated champion Duncan scooped two golds in Budapest this year, but the award is also a recognition of years of dedication and contribution.

Steven, who leads the swimming programme at the University of Stirling, said: “I joined the local swimming club in Stirling about 26 years ago. When I gave up performance swimming, a local coach asked me if I would come and help out at his club and I began my coaching career from there. It’s amazing to be recognised at this year’s sportscotland awards. It’s as much for my support team as it is for me as an individual.”

Stewart Harris, chief executive of sportscotland, added: “In a short space of time, Steven has made a significant impact on performance swimming in Scotland.

“His dedication, commitment and technical intelligence has led the University of Stirling to prominence across the world.

“He has established himself amongst the very best in his profession based on his international results, professional reputation and knowledgeable expertise.

“At sportscotland we are implementing a world-class sporting system at every level in Scotland and we can only do so with the support of the many dedicated coaches, officials and volunteers.

“I hope that many more people are inspired by our winners and recognise the opportunities that exist to get involved in sport at every level from volunteering at your local club or school to coaching or officiating on the world stage.”