TESSA Down of the Chard and district club swam superbly to reach two finals at the ASA South-West regional youth championships.

The 17-year-old progressed in both the 50m and 100m breastroke and also competed in the 200m individual medley. Four other Chard swimmers took part in the championships which were held in the 50 metre pool at Plymouth Life Centre.

The number of Chard swimmers in action was unfortunately down on previous events because of illness and impending exams.

All the Chard team swam well, achieving several personal best times.

Hannah Pullinger (18), swam in the 50m breaststroke, and 100m freestyle events while Melissa Hanson 16, competed in the 200m medley and 400m freestyle, In the boys events Joe Spurway (16) swam the 200m medley and 50m backstroke and 50m butterfly.

Jamie Pullinger (15) competed in the 50m backstroke.

During the weekend the swimmers were able to watch top swimmers from the region in action including the Plymouth-based Olympic gold medallist Ruta Mellatuite.