IN the first event of the Lancashire Sub League swimming competition, defending champions Newton Hall Swimming Club, topped the charts in an exciting gala which was decided only on the last event.

A strong Fleetwood team pushed Newton Hall all the way, but with the strength in depth of the squad Newton Hall pipped Fleetwood with Preston coming in third place.

Leading the way were the girls picking up five first places and a second place for both the open age group and the 14 years and under.

Good wins were also achieved by the boys and girls 12 years and under age group.

After 12 events, Newton Hall led Fleetwood by 35-31 with Preston on 30 points.

A good start was ensured with wins by Anna Brigden and Andrew Hodgson in the 12 years and under freestyle and Samantha Taylor winning the girls 14 years and under breaststroke. Wins by the ladies open freestyle relay team and the girls 14 years and under medley relay team kept Fleetwood at bay.

After 24 events, Newton Hall had stretched their lead to 71-65.

Good wins by Jenna Hodson in the ladies freestyle event with the ladies medley relay team and girls 12 years and under freestyle also winning.

After 36 races Newton Hall's lead was down to one point although great wins by Lisa How, Newton Hall's schoolgirl international, in the butterfly, Leanne Howe in the 14 years and under backstroke, Helen Whittle for the ladies breaststroke and the girls 14 years and under freestyle team kept Fleetwood at bay.

The result was down to the last relay race when victory was secured by Anna Bridgen, Andrew Hodson, Leanne Howe, Richard Mineur, Lisa How and Adam Carlisle in a time of 1.25.23 minutes.

Final result: Newton Hall 111, Fleetwood 108, Preston 81.

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