PAUL Wilkes was in record-breaking form as he and fellow Redditch Swimming Club skipper Laura Cranshaw demonstrated their need for speed at the British Gas ASA National Masters Championships.

Wilkes and Cranshaw, who have both swum with Redditch since they were eight years old, spent the last weekend in Sheffield.

Wilkes, swimming in the 30-34 years age group, was too strong for the opposition in his specialist butterfly events, as he won gold medals in both the 100 metre and 200m butterfly events.

As well as adding these two further national titles to his long list of swimming achievements, he also smashed the British record for his age group in the 200m buttertfly, as he cruised home almost nine seconds ahead of the second placed swimmer.

His time of 2:04.49 was more than one second faster than the previous record, and he already has his name proudly posted on the official ASA list of British masters’ swimming records.

Not to be outdone Cranshaw, RSC girls’ captain, also brought home a medal, taking silver in the 100m breaststroke, in the very competitive 25-29 years age group.

Both Paul and Laura will be leading the RSC team on Saturday, when Redditch are competing in the National Arena League second round gala at Stechford, Birmingham.

Chris Britt RSC head coach commented: “It is a great achievement for these two long-term members of Redditch Swimming club to again win medals at National level, and Paul’s new British record is a fantastic bonus.

“I see Paul and Laura train every week and appreciate why they have been so successful, as they always train hard and inspire and encourage the younger swimmers to do the same.

“Everyone at Redditch Swimming Club is very proud of them both.

“After Issy Griffiths’ medals at Sheffield in the ASA National Age Group Championships, followed by Braiden Hartles’ appearances in two finals at the National Youth Championships, 2014 has again brought considerable success for Redditch swimmers.

“And hopefully, there is more still plenty more to come.”

Redditch Swimming Club’s various squads train regularly at Abbey Stadium, Kingsley and Studley. Talented young swimmers are always welcome to attend for a free trial session.

Anyone interested can contact Chris Britt, RSC head coach, on 01527 853257 or via e-mail at coach@redditchswim.org.uk