KNUTSFORD Vikings swimmers who competed against rivals from other clubs for the first time can be proud of their performance.

That’s the verdict of head coach Phil James after a 20-strong team took part in last weekend’s Cheshire County Junior B Grade meet at Macclesfield.

“They all did really well and I hope they enjoyed the experience,” he said afterwards.

Charlie Wallace (under 11s boys) and Annabel Wallace (under nines girls) both posted times in the 100m individual medley that are fast enough to qualify for the year’s county championship.

Meanwhile Oliver Chase (under 12s boys) met the criteria for the first time in the 200m freestyle.

That trio were among seven Vikings to receive a speeding ticket, awarded to swimmers who are quicker than a cut-off time for their event and so don’t receive a medal.

The team still brought back with them plenty of silverware.

Sophie Symes (under nines girls) and Tom O’Brien (under 10s boys) both celebrated three race wins and Zack Cocksedge (under nines boys) was twice a victor.

There were doubles too for Charlie Wallace and Oliver Chase.

A list of gold medal-winners was completed by Sofia Sutton (under 11s girls) and Camilla Lloyd-Jones (under 10s girls).

James added: “We had quite the haul of medals.

“A special congratulations is owed as well to those that achieved Cheshire qualifying times.”

Vikings turn their attention next to the Percy Mason Memorial meet in Warrington next weekend.