WEST Dorset Swimming Club held their annual club celebration and club championship presentation evening at the Dorford Centre, Dorchester.

There was a great turn out of swimmers, family and friends to support the event, hosted by West Dorset coach Dave McRobbie.

McRobbie recapped on the success the club achieved in 2016, starting with an incredible 12 swimmers reaching the South West Regionals Championships.

The club already have an increased number of swimmers reaching the challenging qualifying times for 2017, which is a fantastic achievement.

Special congratulations went to Finley Jarvis, for becoming regional 100m breaststroke champion, plus winning a silver in the 50m breaststroke. Jarvis is now part of the England Talent Programme.

Dan Kingman claimed bronze in the 50 metre backstroke.

Congratulations were made to Ben Shewbridge for reaching the Nationals Swim Para Finals back in December, where he won a silver in the 50m freestyle and gold in the 50m backstroke.

After his success, Shewbridge is also now part of the England Talent Programme.

In 2016, 24 club records, some long standing, were broken, 10 by Kingman, five by Lauren McRobbie, four by Amy Buttle, three by Jarvis and two by Henry Wyrill.

Last year, the club entered three different leagues for team events.

The club are very proud of all swimmers that took part in the Novice League, Southern Junior League and National Arena League competitions.

In additional to the swimming club, West Dorset have a very successful synchronised swimming team.

McRobbie then took this opportunity of thanking the large number of volunteers, committee members and parents that help ensure the club can run.

Thank yous were made for those assisting Colin, Dave, Tina and Chris poolside to Lauren O’Toole, Eilis Martin, Anna White, Andy Baker, Charlie Hitchcock, Abbie Baker, Josh Prowse, Amanda Dunning and Dave Hewitt.

A special mention were made to Cris Hitchcock, club secretary and head coach Colin Cracknell, for their dedication to the club.

Coaches awards were made to swimmers that show a quality noticed by the coaches from dedication, attendance, to those who show they always try 100 per cent.