Some of the county’s more talented younger swimmers were given their chance to shine in a number of competitions either side of the festive period.

Pembrokeshire County Swimming (PCS) took 13 members of the National and Junior National squads to Cardiff for the RCT (Rhondda Cynon Taff) New Year Open Meet last month to test themselves against a strong field of competitors.

The plucky youngsters grabbed eight medals, including two gold, one silver, and five bronze, plus a host of new personal best times.

Rory Andrews of Haverfordwest shone, claiming two gold, a silver and three bronze. The National squad member claimed top spot for the 400m freestyle and 400m individual medley (IM), hitting the wall in 5:30.08.

Zac West secured bronze in the 200m breaststroke, after the Fishguard swimmer touched in 3:30.90.

Tayla Wilson of Pembroke also took bronze in the 400m IM, touching in 6:08.69.

Sam Jones, assistant development coach at PCS, said: “It was a great experience for our young swimmers, especially racing long course (50m pool) here in Cardiff.

"I was really impressed with how professional the swimmers were, and by working as a team through the weekend.”

In addition, before Christmas PCS grabbed a bumper medal haul of 22 gold, 17 silvers and nine bronze sat the Carmarthen Open.

Jones said “Carmarthen was a successful meet for the young guns”.

Combined with the RCT event in Cardiff, Jones reckons these events will help swimmers prepare for the Swim Wales Easter Nationals at the end of March, where they will be racing against the best age group swimmers in Wales and beyond.

PCS is a partnership between Pembrokeshire Council and the county’s six development clubs - Haverfordwest Seals, Fishguard Flyers, Tenby Dolphins, Milford Tigers, Pembroke & District and Preseli Panthers. It provides talented young swimmers with a development pathway through to national and international competition.