Newham Swords club has just finished an impressive year with 11 out of 12 competitors qualifying for the prestigious British Youth Championship Finals in January, more than any other club in the country.

The club has garnered a staggering 83 medals since January. The culmination was beating all other boroughs at the London Youth Games, taking the trophy from Kensington and Chelsea, who had clinched the title for the last five years.

Members have also had significant individual achievements, including 12-year-old Alex Savin who is representing Great Britain in an international competition in February.

Linda Strachan and Pierre Harper, who both competed at Olympic level, formed the club two years ago with funding from Newham Council. Newham Sports Academy has been giving additional support to the most promising performers over the last year.

Newham Swords club takes place at Kingsford community, Lister community and Cumberland schools for anyone aged eight and above. For more information about the club, contact Linda Strachan on 07956 618898.