A PROUD Fylde mum was beaming as she saw the daughter she had nominated for a top swimming accolade step on to the stage at a glittering gala dinner to receive an award.

Valerie Gore, of Agnew Road in Fleetwood, put her daughter Debi, a former international swimmer, in for the prestigious Kellogg's Amateur Swimming Association Awards Scheme.

When the judges read about Debi's swimming achievements they were just as impressed as Valerie and decided to give her a special award given only to those who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to their chosen sport.

Speaking about why she had nominated her daughter, Valerie said: "Debi has given 20 years of her life over to swimming. She has been completely dedicated, both as a competitive swimmer and now in teaching others.

"She started when she was seven and by the time she was 11 she was national age group champion for the 100 and 200 metres free style.

"She went to the European Junior Championships at 15 and at 17 she went to the Olympics.

"Her team got a British record. We have been behind her all the way and to see it culminating so successfully makes it all worthwhile."

Debi, who now runs The Olympian School of Swimming from her home in Bennetts Lane, said: " I love swimming and I love teaching too. I am just touched and delighted that it was my own mum who put me in for this award. It was a big surprise."

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