Olympic swimmer Richards is an inspiration - coach

Swim coach Mark Stowe described the 200m freestyle race as hugely exciting

A coach who mentored a UK swimmer who has qualified for the Paris Olympics hopes his triumph will inspire future generations of swimmers.

Matt Richards, 21, could now compete in six events at the games, which begin on 26 July, after winning the men's 200m freestyle race at the Swimming Championships.

Mark Stowe said it had been a privilege to coach Richards as a child, a swimmer who would leave no stone unturned in his bid to win as many golds as possible.

"His work ethic is exceptional, he's talented, hard working and quite a lot of fun," he said.

Mr Stowe, who is head coach at Worcester Swimming Club, said it was thrilling to watch Droitwich's Richards race during the championships, last week.

"It was just a hugely exciting race with four world class performances," he added.

He described Richards as a role model for all swimmers, having been one of the standout performers during the competition.

Featuring swimming on TV channels like Channel 4 and BBC, rather than Youtube, highlighted a really important moment, Mr Stowe said.

"It means the world as swimming doesn't get as much coverage as it should," he said.

The 57-year-old from Stratford-upon-Avon hopes the sport will continue to be covered by broadcasters in the future.

"The people behind the swimming are amazing and if kids can see someone on the telly, they can see what they want to be like," he added.

Matt Richards said he wants to win as many golds as possible during the Olympics