BURNLEY Bobcats had an early Christmas present after winning the Arena League Minor Division – toppling the champions of the eight previous years.

The swimming club picked up a total of 30 podium places from 40 races – including an impressive 18 first places – at the Liverpool Aquatic Centre to end Bolton’s dominance.

It was a fantastic achievement for the Bobcats Arena League team who remained unchanged for all of the rounds of the competition.

The winning team included girls Saffron Fenton, Lucy Alexander, Grace Pickles, Ella Sheridan, Katie Rennolds, Erica Minozzi, Emma Fothergill, Kerry-Anne Holding, Abigail Pounder and Marsha Banks.

The boys that took part were Elliott Norman, Harry Pilkington, Robert Bryce, Dean Moorhouse, Jamie Sharpley, Thomas Hamer, Jake Copeman, Dan Fox, Luke Pickles, Martin Handley and Michael Robinson.

As well as defending champion Bolton, the Bobcats were up against Leyland Barracudas, Romily Marina, Northwhich, Whitchurch Wasps and Altrincham.

With five races remaining, the Bobcats held a slender seven point lead over Bolton but they then went on to win all the remaining races – including taking a full sweep in the 4x50m freestyle relays.

“This is a fantastic achievement for Bobcats,” said chairman Simon Holding. “The quality of commitment and performance was a credit to the Aquatic sport in the Borough of Burnley.

“The hard work and dedication by all involved is starting to pay dividends, long may it continue.”