There was delight for Sandringham School as their swimmers secured a top-10 position in England.

The Ridgeway-based school's senior boys put in a heroic effort at the English Schools Swimming Association's 64th National Team Championships, held at the London Aquatics Centre.

The medley relay team of K.Birkett, D.Holliss, N.Mapley and L.Payne qualified for the final in 10th position.

But while that was already impressive, they then went even better in the final to secure eighth spot, making them the fastest school in Hertfordshire and the fastest state school in England.

Sandringham's freestyle team of Birkett, Mapley, E.Ivelaw-Chapman and J.Coleman faced stiff competition too and finished 24th.

Assistant head, Andy Cracknell, said: "Wow. I just don’t have the words for what this means for the boys, our school and our PE department.

"Having another chance to compete at a national final against some of the most prestigious schools in the country is such a great opportunity for these boys.

"The team once again showed the height of professionalism and if they had any nerves beforehand these were not visible to myself or my colleagues.

"Our school aims to support all its students as best we can in whatever sporting endeavours, they take part in and competing against the resources of some of the country’s top independent schools is always difficult.

"However, we will always make sure our voices are as loud as any other to cheer our students on.

"I would like to thank the PE department and Mr Smith who have help organise our school's participation in this event and most of all thank the boys.

"You have done yourselves, the school and St Albans proud."