RAMSBOTTOM Rascals have made the finals in the toughest competition of them all -- the National Speedo Swimming League. The club, enjoying its best season for a decade, won through at Radcliffe on Saturday.

Under the direction of chief coach Rick Wesolowski, the Rascals beat Hoylake, Leyland, Kendal and Stretford and were only nine points behind Trafford Metro.

Wesolowski told the Bury Times: "We had several swimmers at the peak of their form, particularly Matt Nelson, Paul Evans, Richard Marks and Robert Chandler.

"It was a brilliant gala but I am concerned that not everyone was totally focused, although we will get it spot on for the final.

"Trafford is a major south Manchester squad club and it really is fantastic that despite Ramsbottom's limited facilities, we can live with the best."

The team members were boosted by the performances of Ruth Grady, her sister Cath, Sue Heys, Laura Hindle and Claire Tolan.

"They were outstanding and a credit to themselves, projecting just the right image of our vibrant club" said Wesolowski.

If the Rascals do the business in the finals to be held next month, they could be promoted to the Speedo Premier League.

Two club records were broken on Sunday by eight-year-olds Victoria Donohoe and Lewis Shepherd -- both in 25m breast-stroke events. Referee Wesolowski said: "This event proves just how rosy the future of our club is. We are now reaping the rewards of the hard work put in by the swimmers and their coaches".