THREE swimmers from the Bradford District have been selected to take part in the Swim England National Development Programme for 2021.

Keira Hinchliffe (14), Sophia Gledhill (14) and Freddy Dean (12), who all swim with the Council-run Bradford Aquatics Swimming Development Elite Coaching Scheme, have been chosen to proceed to the next level and will now take part in the Swim England delivery plan, with online camps in phase one and poolside camps in phase two.

Currently there are 75 swimmers in the Bradford Aquatics Swimming Development Elite Coaching Scheme.

Swimmers are invited to train from four local swim clubs in the area (Ilkley Swimming Club, Bradford Dolphins, Bradford Swimming Club and Bingley Swimming Club). Swimmers are selected to attend by the senior swim coach, with guidance from local club coaches.

The Elite Coaching Scheme is set up in three tiers.

Swimmers start with the Rising Stars squad and are invited to attend this session through local swim clubs. Swimmers then progress to the Junior Development squad and then to the Youth Development squad, which is the premier squad within the scheme.

Cllr Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Healthy People and Places, said: “On behalf of Bradford Council, I want to congratulate the young people who have worked hard to get selected for the Swim England National Development Programme for 2021.

“Their success is a real testament to the determination and resilience shown by the swimmers and the extensive support given by their families. Their selection also recognises the excellent coaching available throughout our district.

“I am sure I’m not the only person who has really enjoyed watching the swimming at the Olympics this summer - we will have to wait and see if we have a future Olympian from one of our three talented young people.”

Find out more about swimming in the district and the Swimming Development Elite Coaching Scheme by ringing the Bradford Aquatics team on 01274 438791 or emailing bradfordaquatics@bradford.gov.uk