Bishop’s Stortford Swimming Club finish as highest-ranked Hertfordshire team the National Arena League

Bishop’s Stortford Swimming Club finishing as the highest-ranked Hertfordshire team in the National Arena League has been hailed as an “outstanding achievement”.

They came fifth out of the fastest eight to qualify for the Premier Division London final in Luton and were also fifth out of 16 in the division overall.

Stortford finished above far bigger county rivals, including the likes of Hatfield, Watford and City of St Albans.

“Making it to the National Arena League final has been an incredible journey, especially given the challenges we’ve faced with a few swimmers missing,” said head coach Jamie McLaughlin.

“Every single member of the team stepped up and performed to the best of their abilities, showcasing their resilience and determination.

“Achieving fifth place on the night and finishing as the top club in Hertfordshire is a testament to their hard work and dedication.”

Representing Stortford in the open category were Niamh James, Jake Lloyd, Ella Greatbatch, Nick Botha, Rebecca Johnson, Adrien Storck-Wihlidal, Lucy Wheeler, Callum Davis, Emma Fields, Dan Chada and Laura Burgess.

Competing in the 15-and-under section were Rose Conday, Dylan Davenport, Felice Chan, Elliot Hall, Elizabeth Balaam, Volodymyr Ignatiev, Molly Greatbatch and Jack Deeks.

Lois Fields, Benjamin Palmer, Isabelle Earley, Guy Spearman-Baines, Edie Foster, Noah Conroy, Millie Cass and Summer Miller took part in the 13-and-under races.

And the club was represented by Ellyse Harvey, Harrison Dodwell, Alys Morton, Luca Tse, Olivia Hawker, Taras Boiko, Margo Martin and Kenny Millsom in the 11-and-under events.