Young Wirral swimmer Tom Barton to for England at UK School Games

Aug 11 2010 by Nick Moreton, Birkenhead News

WIRRAL swimming sensation Tom Barton has been selected to compete on behalf of England at the 2010 Sainsbury’s UK School Games.

Woodchurch High School pupil Barton will compete against young elite swimmers from across the nation at the Sunderland Aquatic Centre, from September 2–5.

The Games is the pinnacle sports event for school-aged people competing in the UK and will see 1,600 athletes descend on the North East to participate in four days of exciting competition across 10 sports.

A delighted Barton said: “I am going there to do my best and to enjoy the whole experience.

“I am really looking forward to it; meeting athletes from other sports and also meeting up with swimming friends from other parts of the country.”

Barton has attracted support from GB athlete and Olympic gold medallist Rebecca Adlington, who says the Games provide a fantastic opportunity for young athletes to get a taste of elite competition and everything that comes along with it.

Adlington said: “Congratulations to Tom on being selected to represent England.

“It is a fantastic achievement and something which he should feel extremely proud of.

“Winning two gold medals at the Beijing Olympics was a highlight of my sporting career and the games provided invaluable experience in competing against other world class swimmers.

“I hope Tom benefits from the competition, and it proves invaluable in preparing him for his future and I wish him all the best in the swimming event.”