A FORMER Olympic diver has been given a lifetime achievement award.

Charmian (CORR) Rawlings, originally from Thornley, east Durham, was honoured by British Swimming for Outstanding Contribution at Club Level.

Mrs Rawlings (nee Welsh), a former Durham High School for Girls pupil, is part of Durham City Amateur Swimming and Water Polo Club (DCASC).

As a youngster, she trained at Dawdon Colliery’s open air baths, known as the pit pond. She has devoted many years to supporting young swimmers.

Another DCASC member, Helen Dawson, was also honoured, as Young Volunteer of the Year (under 18s).

Helen is a pupil at Framwellgate School Durham, has gained swimming teaching qualifications, regularly coaches DCASC squads and assists with swimming sessions at Freeman’s Quay leisure centre, in Durham City.

Both won 2012 North East Amateur Swimming Association Aquaforce awards and were runners-up in the national awards.

The national awards were held at the Crowne Plaza hotel, in Nottingham.