THE Tornadoes of South Dorset took 21 swimmers to the Dorset County Development meet, with a mix of mainly junior development and a few A squad.

The Portland-based swimmers shared 52 medals between them, 25 gold, 17 silver, and 10 bronze, resulting in an impressive 40 per cent of swims ending with a medal.

They were Holly Kearns, Poppy Sanders, Maisie Corbridge, Lilly Davies, Sophie Marsh, Charlotte O Dowd, Megan Hunter, Caitlin English, Rebekah Walsh, Elena Walsh, Bethany Firth, Emily Hanger, Phoebe Mills, Chloe Perkins, Ellissia Walburn, Freddie Middleton, Harry Collinson, Ethan Hanger, Harry Falconer, Ollie Mills, and Josh Rowe.

Five swimmers received individual awards for their weekend's efforts.

A club spokesman said: "A special mention must go to Josh Rowe who claimed the top boy award, plus a championship best time, with a near perfect weekend of nine golds and one silver.

"He has had a tough season, but has addressed some training issues to end his season with some real pride."

The other swimmers earning top awards were:

Ethan Hanger: Most improved 200 form.

Holly Kearns: Most improved 200 breaststroke.

Harry Collinson: Most improved 50 free style.

Poppy Sanders: Most improved 100 swim.

Lead coach Chris Beal said: "As ever the development meet is a great event and always gives the new and upcoming swimmers a chance to shine, many did just that this year and the medal count from just 21 swimmers was spectacular.

"The personal best percentage was a little down on last year, but with many only competing three weeks earlier, it was not a problem.

"The junior squad gave a good account of themselves, and it is a good indicator of things to come. Plus the seniors showed the younger ones how fast swimming should be done."