WINSFORD’S Swim Team members improved their prospects of competing on the national stage this summer after encouraging performances last weekend.

A group of 15 swimmers claimed 27 medals between them, including a dozen golds, during the Liverpool Spring Open Meet.

It was a confidence boost too ahead of the North West Summer Championships later this month.

“We took away a huge number of positives,” said head coach Dan Goodwin.

“A number of our swimmers occupy a decent position in the national qualification tables and I’m sure all of them will be looking to improve again at the regional championships at Manchester in three weeks’ time.”

Jay Cushen led the way at Wavertree with seven wins, while he was runner-up too in the 100m and 50m breaststroke for his age-group category.

Lottie Howman claimed two golds, both of them freestyle, and as many silver and bronze.

Meanwhile Ethan Wright won in the over 16s boys’ 400m individual medley and 1,500m freestyle.

Winsford’s list of victors also included Will Murray, who prevailed in his class in the 100m and 50m breaststroke, and Ethan Jones won the over 16s boys’ 100m backstroke.

There was a runner-up prize too for Henry Oliver (over 16s boys’ 1,500m freestyle), Theo Oliver (under 13s boys’ 1,500m freestyle) and Finn Armitt (over 16s boys’ 200m butterfly).

Alex Moss took bronze in the over 16s boys’ 1,500m freestyle too.

Of Winsford’s contingent, Rory Armitt, Will Deeming, Josh Wilson, Harvey Zwijnen, Katie Woodbridge and Tom Carss celebrated at least one top-eight placing during the meet.

Goodwin added: “This was an opportunity for Winsford swimmers to post times in a long-course pool.

“It’s clear to see that every time they do, then they learn more about and improve upon their race tactics – that will only stand them in good stead.”