Swimmers dive into Welsh squad

Six young Pembrokeshire swimmers have qualified for the Welsh Skills Squad.

The squad is the first rung on the ladder for swimmers wanting to represent their country at international events.

The six youngsters - Michael Hire, Niamh Slack, Hannah Saunders, Kelsey Williams, Isabelle Davies and Jonathan Orchard - regularly train with Pembrokeshire's County Skills Squad at the new Haverfordwest pool.

They began their training in their local developments clubs - Fishguard Flyers, Tenby Dolphins, Pembroke & District, Haverfordwest Seals and Milford Haven Tigers.

They were chosen for the squad after undertaking a gruelling series of competitions across a range of Olympic events.

"This is marvellous news and testament to the hard work and effort of the young swimmers as well as their coaches," said Paul Dowey, Pembrokeshire Leisure's swimming development coach.

"Last year two Pembrokeshire swimmers were selected so it's also a measure of how much swimming in the County is improving."

Bethan Davie also qualified for the Welsh Youth Squad.

The young swimmers will now attend a training camp led by some of Wales' top coaches.

Photograph: (L-R) are: Kelsey Williams, Isabelle Davies, Jonathan Orchard, Niamh Slack, Hannah Saunders and Michael Hire.