An 18-year-old who broke his neck in a beach accident is recovering at a specialist hospital in Atlanta.

Matthew Raynor was severely injured after diving into shallow water at Horseshoe Bay.

Matthew?s father, Reginald Raynor, told yesterday that therecovery process will be a long one. Currently Matthew is in a wheelchair but doctors are hoping the swelling on his spinal column will go down.

The family is grateful for all the support and prayers they have received from the public. ?We are hoping he will make a full 100 percent recovery, but even if this is not possible we will support him 100 percent,? said Mr. Raynor.

Matthew was initially airlifted out of the Island for treatment to the Lahey Clinic. Last week he underwent a five hour operation to repair his spine.

Mr. Raynor ? described as an outgoing young boxer and May 24 marathon runner ? works with his father, who owns Raynor?s Shell Service Station on Middle Road in Southampton.

Matthew was running with his brother on the beach when he jumped into the water to cool off.