Cliff Ward made a splash at an international swimming competition when he won two gold medals - and in the process set a new world record, writes CRAIG STODDART.
Competing at the European Masters held in Majorca, Cliff was successful in the 50 metre backstroke and the 200m backstroke.
Cliff, 69 - although rules state that as he is 70 later this year, he must compete in the 70-74 age group - now holds the British and European records in the 50m backstroke after recording 38.08 seconds.
The record had stood for a year having been set in the World Championships in Munich.
Cliff, who has been a keen swimmer since he was young and represented the County as a youngster, said: "Well put it this way, I wasn't expecting to win, but I was hoping.
"The 50m backstroke is my favourite, I win more races in it."
The Stockton-based swimmer represents Stockton Amateur SC has tasted international glory before, having twice been World Champion; in 1997 and in 1992.
There were 3,500 entrants in the Majorca event, including 1000 from Germany and 300 represented Britain while Italy and France both had strong fields.
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