Current and former stars of City of St Albans Swimming Club made a splash at the 2023 British Swimming Championships.

Held at Ponds Forge in Sheffield, one of the latest crop of talented youngsters, Daniel Holliss, was competing in the men's open 200m breaststroke and won his heat.

That, unfortunately, was not enough for the 17-year-old pupil at Sandringham School to qualify for the evening's final.

It was the same fate that befell former CoStA athlete, William Loveman, who took part in both the men’s open 100m and 200m breaststroke.

There was slightly better fortune though for Michael Ripper, now swimming for Loughborough University.

He had a commanding swim in his men's open 200m freestyle heat, qualifying for the priority pairs final where he came seventh, just 1.23 seconds behind the winner.

The performance of all though was a delight for the senior coaching team of Mike Cole and Paul Wollaston who believe it to be a sign that club is on the right track.

They said: "We can’t put into words how much joy we get from seeing our current or former swimmers take part in such championships.

"We know that Daniel will be disappointed to not have progressed to the finals but knowing his character and determination to succeed he will take on the positives and with our help strengthen those areas that will make him an even better swimmer for future championships to come.

"Knowing how hard the entry times to take part in these championships it is an achievement to take part to which thousands of others would dearly love to have the chance.

"So our heart-felt respect goes out to these swimmers and we hope to see them and more in later championships."

The club is always open to new members wishing to swim competitively.

If that is your child, email the club at trials@costaasc.org