POOLE swimmer Leo McCrea has won a silver medal at the World Para Swimming Championships in Madeira.

McCrea, who represents Switzerland, the nationality of his mother, finished second in the 100m breaststroke final, his favoured event.

The 18-year-old posted a time of 1:32.75, a new personal best and his biggest achievement in the sport to date.

“I'm very happy about it," said McCrea.

"The race went really well and I swam faster than in Tokyo (at the European Championships).

"I don't really realise it yet, but it's a very special moment for me."

McCrea, who lives with his family in Poole, is registered disabled as he was born with Achondroplasia, a form of restricted growth, similar to GB star Ellie Simmonds.

His previous experience of the Worlds saw him reach a final in 2019, while he also competed at the 2020 Paralympics in Tokyo, finishing fifth in the 100m breaststroke final.