AS Giggleswick potter Matthew Wilcock sails in to the final of television's The Great Pottery Throw Down, he reveals just why he always dresses in a suit and tie.

Matthew, 23, who teaches pottery at Giggleswick School, is one of just four of the original ten potters left in the BBC2 series that has so far hooked the nation.

This week, he took the title of Top Potter for the third time, after impressing judges with his bone china chandelier.

And his distinctive look, which marks him out from his fellow, more-casually dressed competitors, is down to the school's dress code, and out of respect for a late, favourite potter.

"The dress code for working in a school is very different than pulling on a pair of jeans for your own workshop - I wear a suit and tie everyday for work because it is expected."

And he also does it out his respect for country potter, Isaac Button, who died in 1969.

"One of my favourite potters, Isaac Button, would always be seen wearing a shirt and tie. I'm still working on the pipe and flat cap though," said Matthew.

Meanwhile, Matthew is not surprised at how popular the series has proved to be, and says his friends have been amazed at seeing him on the television.

"A lot of adults over a certain age have at some time used clay in school and it has always been depicted in films as an art form that is enjoyable," he said.

"I don't think my friends had actually thought about me being a potter, we just sort of get on with or lives and meet socially. They are now all following the show and are really amazed that I had the confidence to apply for the series."