SOUTHERN Water has completed 25 years of its Learn to Swim programme which has helped to teach more than 750,000 children to swim.

Three children from West Sussex have won a top prize at this year’s awards.

Each year the courage and determination of children who have learned to swim against the odds or performed exceptionally is celebrated, as one child from each pool is nominated for the Achiever of the Year award by their swimming teacher.

Olympic gold medallist Duncan Goodhew and Invictus Games gold medallist Mike Goody presented the young swimmers with medals and certificates in front of an audience of families and swimming instructors from participating pools at the event at Mountbatten Centre, Portsmouth.

Liam Hough, ten, from Shoreham has ambitions to go all the way to the Olympics with his swimming.

Emma Fox, eight, from Worthing received her award and her teacher Triston Lyons from Splashpoint Centre said: “When Emma started, she was petrified of the water and had to overcome many hurdles. She can now demonstrate excellent stroke techniques swimming in water out of her depth and her confident continues to grow. Well done Emma!”

Beatrice Millard, six, from Chichester has been learning to swim at Chichester Cormorants Swim School for nine months.

Southern Water’s community campaigns and engagement manager Beverley Thompson said: “This year we celebrated 25 years of Learn to Swim, a fantastic milestone for everyone who’s been involved.

“We would like to thank all the instructors at the clubs and pools across the regions who give their time and expertise.”