DEVIZES School pupil Alex Sharman has been selected to represent Wiltshire at the 2015 National Inter-county Swimming Championships in Sheffield next month.

The year eight student, who started swimming at aged three, qualified for 10 events at this year’s South West Regional Swimming Championships, making four finals, and winning a bronze medal in the 50 metre Backstroke. His selection to represent the county, reflecting his race performances, was confirmed earlier this month.

Alex said: “Making the county team was one of my big aims for this year, and I am looking forward to racing the best from around the country. “I would eventually like to swim for Great Britain at the Olympics, although I know that will require a lot of effort, and competition for places will be tough.”

Alex’s parents, Adrian and Kate, are delighted by his selection. They said: “Alex had a really tough time when he was 10 with injury. “Yet throughout that, he remained positive and determined to get back in the water and start winning medals again. “His drive and determination have really shown in the past year, and we are really proud of what he has achieved so far.”

Alex will have considerable support in Sheffield as his father’s family live very close to the pool. His grandmother, aunt and cousins are all looking forward to seeing him compete.

Alex added: “They will simply have to be honorary Wiltshire residents for the duration.”