DORCHESTER schoolgirl Becky Cottrell is celebrating after making a big splash at one of the country's top swimming galas.

The talented 13-year-old left some of the sport's top youngsters in her wake to scoop four gold medals during the New

Year Level One Open at Millfield School.

Becky, a member of West Dorset Warriors, was in scintillating form, beating opponents from England, Ireland and Wales at the event hosted by Exeter City Swimming Club.

The Warrior gave a masterclass performance in the 200m breaststroke, recording a superb time of just 2minutes 44seconds.

She then secured first place finishes in the 100m breaststroke and 200m individual medleys, while her victory in the 400m individual medley saw her finish a massive 21 seconds ahead of her nearest rival.

Delighted West Dorset Warriors' assistant head coach Chris Coleman said: "Becky's achievements were outstanding, especially considering she comes from one of the smaller clubs. It certainly gives the big guns something to think about.

"Becky has shown that swimmers from smaller teams can make an impact at higher level meetings and I feel she has a great future ahead."

Becky wasn't the only Warrior to star at the Millfield showdown.

Twelve-year-old Kim Roberts flew the West Dorset flag proudly by taking silver in the 100m and 200m freestyle, and bronze in the 200m backstroke.

Kim then went on to shave a massive 15 seconds off her personal best time in the 400m freestyle.

And Olivia Thornton, 11, showed incredible mental toughness to prosper in the sprint

challenge of the 100m backstroke.

The number two seed tackled the swim with pace and aggression to snatch gold and a personal best time, to add to the bronze she had already won in the 200m backstroke.

Coleman added: "After the Christmas break it has been encouraging to see the Warriors swimmers are still improving significantly.

"Kim and Olivia's performances at Millfield show the club's potential and we're proud of their efforts."