Coronavirus has proved challenging for all sports, including competitive swimming which has seen no competitions since 2019.

The members of Ryde Swimming Club, like many other swimmers, saw training cancelled in March.

The club put in place some ‘dry side’ activities, consisting of simple exercises to try and maintain strength and fitness without entering the water.

Some swimmers purchased their own pools to train in, and the club also organised regular games evenings and dry side advice sessions via Zoom.

In July, pools were permitted to reopen, with Ryde Swimming Club being one of the first clubs in the country to return back to training thanks to Waterside Community Trust putting measures in place to facilitate a quick return.

A spokesperson for the Waterside Community Trust said: "Covid has shown that swimming, although very much an individual activity, is at its core a team sport.

"The swimmers' achievements need celebrating, congratulating and due recognition in their commitment to the sport they love."

"A huge well done to Ryde Swimming Club for keeping your sport alive, but equally to all sports clubs, coaches and volunteers for continuing where possible during these difficult times."