Scottish surfer thanks staff after release from Ulster hospital

The 22-year-old has recovered to the point where he can now be discharged.

It follows a dramatic rescue from the North Channel last Monday night.

He had set out from Argyll on the Sunday morning and was reported missing 24 hours later.

Coastguard crews from here helped in the search operation for him and he was eventually found and plucked from the water.

He was treated at the hospital for hypothermia.

Speaking just before his discharge, Matthew said: "The care I have received here at the Ulster Hospital has been second to none from the staff in the Emergency Department on my arrival to Ward 15 staff, all the porters, domestics and everybody involved in my care for all the love, care and support shown to me through this particularly traumatic experience.

"To each and every one of you'thank you very much.'"

Matthew’s parents, John and Isabella said: "Between us both, we have over 60 years’ experience working in the NHS, so we know how busy it can be.

"The staff here in the Ulster Hospital have been so thoughtful, kind and considerate, and this has helped make a traumatic experience for us much more bearable.

"They helped turn a negative experience into a positive one.

"We would also like to thank the public for the many get well wishes that were sent to Matthew. To Rhonda and all the staff, you have all been outstanding, we can’t thank you all enough".