WORCESTER Swimming Club was the winner of the PGL league gala in Gloucester when eight teams, each with 40 swimmers, battled for the top places.

The youngsters, who are all 13 years and under, took part in individual and relay events.

It was not just about who was fastest, though, as the event was a graded meeting.

That meant swimmers who swam faster than the graded time, were docked their points.

Mark Stowe, junior squad coach from Worcester SC, said: "The PGL League is a fantastic competition and we look forward to the final.

"This year, it proved extremely close with the lead changing hands regularly, so I was thoroughly delighted that we managed to win.

"We knew we had a really strong squad and were very determined to do well but it required a supreme team effort and, without exception, every swimmer contributed to the success. I was very proud of them."

PGL Travel has supported the event for more than a decade and their corporate affairs director Martin Hudson said: "It is good for children to be able to swim for their own safety and also for the healthy exercise.

"There's a great atmosphere with many close races, so the event is very exciting for participants and spectators.

"It's rewarding to see how delighted they are to get their medals - all 320 of them!"

The runners-up were Cheltenham with Ludlow in third place. Other teams taking part came from Bromsgrove, Abertillery, Ross, Wyre Forest, Haden Hill, Four Shires, Pershore, Stourbridge and Leominster.