The 18-year-old will receive �1,000 towards training and competing and is one of 264 youngsters selected from across England and Wales.

Hughes, a student at the College of West Anglia, attended the launch of the scheme at Wembley Stadium. He rubbed shoulders with Leon Taylor, who won a diving silver medal in the men’s synchronised 10m platform with partner Peter Waterfield at the Athens Olympics in 2004.

And Hughes, whose home is in Downham Market, admits his recent recognition will be just the confidence boost he needs ahead of a hectic 2012 season.

“It’s massive, it will help so much with everything I need, like going to competitions and petrol costs,” said Hughes – who also was treated to a behind-the-scenes tour of the Olympic Park in East London.

“Without the help it would be hard to get anywhere and I do quite a lot of competitions so this will definitely help my progression.

“I travel all over the place, I’ve been to London and Nottingham recently, but it’s all gearing towards the Junior World Championships in August.

“I can knuckle down now and just concentrate on achieving the results to get to Bulgaria and I can’t wait.”

In partnership with SportsAid, the Lloyds TSB initiative is designed to ensure more talent reaches the top of their sport.

Lloyds TSB Local Heroes, in partnership with SportsAid, provides support and funding to 346 of Britain’s most talented developing athletes on their journey to London 2012 and beyond.

Since 2008, the programme has supported 1,000 athletes.