Littlehampton golden girl Grace hailed by Olympian

OLYMPIC gold medallist Duncan Goodhew has praised Littlehampton’s own rising swimming star at an awards ceremony in Southampton.

Five-year-old Grace Spindler won the Achiever of the Year accolade at the Southern Water Learn to Swim awards and was presented with a plaque by swim star Duncan.

Grace, who has swimming lessons at the Swimbabies club, in Worthing, is described as “determined” and an “inspiration” to others.

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She was among 30 winners who were nominated for the awards and received medals and goodie bags while they were cheered on by their proud parents, swimming instructors, siblings and friends.

The accolades are given to children who have displayed one or more of the seven Olympic values in order to overcome particular difficulties, or for exceptional performance.

During the event Duncan, who was an Olympic Torch bearer last month, brought along his replica of the torch and his gold medal from the 1980 Moscow Olympics. There was entertainment from Mr Pineapple Head and a buffet tea.

Duncan praised all the young swimmers for their commitment and Olympic spirit.

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He said: “In this Olympic year, It is great to see so many children who have learnt to swim with help from Southern Water. Many of them have overcome difficulties, or put in an extraordinary amount of effort, so it is wonderful for them to get this recognition.”