MORE than 100 junior swimmers have taken part in a district-wide swimming gala.

Hambleton’s four swimming clubs took part in the event at Bedale Leisure Centre, where youngsters aged between six and 14 competed in individual and team events in front crawl, backstroke, breaststroke and butterfly for older swimmers.

The Hambleton Swimming League is a collaborative effort between clubs in Bedale, Northallerton, Stokesley, Thirsk and Hambleton District Council.

This year was the fourth swimming gala and top spot was taken by Northallerton Amateur Swim Club, pushing previous winners, Thirsk White Horse Swim Team, into second place.

“There is no emphasis on individual winners as we are trying to promote a team effort and minimise individual pressure that youngsters often place on themselves,” said Sam Davison, chairman of Northallerton ASC.

“On behalf of the four Chairman I would like to thank all the swimmers especially as the majority were first timers, their spectators who make these events come alive and the helpers who from each club give up their time to act as marshals, judges and time keepers.”

The league is currently searching for sponsors to help promote cohesive local competitive swimming and secure specialist equipment to host the galas to the highest standard. For more information contact Sam Davison on 07805 113274.

For more information about swimming opportunities in the Hambleton area visit; hambleton.gov.uk/zest