SINCE arriving in the UK from Malaysia three years ago, Lydia Cheah has been a firm fixture on the national badminton scene.

The Kuala Lumpur native is in her third year at the University of Derby, and will be representing them at BUCS Nationals in Sheffield, this weekend.

After coming second in the singles competition last year, Cheah is hoping for a return to the form which saw her claim top place back in 2016.

“We are preparing very hard, the whole of Team Derby is preparing very hard,” said the 28-year-old.

“I enjoy BUCS a lot. It’s nice to have everyone together in one place.

“Whenever they play they give me a very big support, I love that.”

As well as playing for a singles medal, Cheah has teamed up with Kirby Ngan for the ladies’ doubles competition.

“I enjoy doubles because you have a partner encouraging you, supporting you,” she said.

“It’s more stressful to play singles because the court is bigger and you are alone in the court.

“I hope for both of my events I am able to get a medal.”

Cheah balances studying for her mechanical engineering degree with an intensive training programme.

And has so far found that balance successfully – with thanks to the University of Derby.

“Whenever I have free time I try to get my work done,” she concluded.

“I’m lucky to have my accommodation near the sports centre, so it’s not so stressful to go training early in the morning.

“It’s to my advantage!”

BUCS Nationals powered by Muhdo is the largest annual multi-sport event in the UK, bringing the best of Britain’s university athletes together to compete across eight different sports in Sheffield. More info at bucs.org.uk and via #BUCSNationals