TWO Inverclyde Amateur Swimming Club stars had to pull out of an elite British trial in London after their preparations were disrupted by lockdown restrictions.

Matthew Garrity and Aimee Watson were lined up to take part in the British Swimming Selection Trials 2021 - previously known as the British Championships - at the London Aquatics Centre from April 14 to 18.

Each year this event sees some of the fastest swimmers around the country hoping to secure their place on the GB team for the Olympics and the younger swimmers looking to secure a place at other events such as the European Junior Championships.

Due to the ongoing coronavirus restrictions and the continued uncertainty of the easing of lockdown, there were changes made to the entry requirements which resulted in limiting the number of participants this year.

The meet was scaled back with the ultimate focus being on the senior selections for international competitions later in the year.

However, Matthew and Aimee both had consideration times for a number of events at the championships.

Given the change of focus to this event and the lack of training, Matthew, Aimee, their families and their head coach made the tough decision not to attend this year.

It was a difficult decision for them to make but IASC would like to acknowledge what an amazing achievement this is.

The club are extremely proud because they have never had anyone represent Inverclyde ASC at this event before.

Head coach Shirley Reford said: "I am very proud to have two swimmers achieve the tough consideration time for the trials.

"It would have been a tremendous experience for Matthew and Aimee to swim in London at the Olympic Park mixing with Britain's best.

"This event was cancelled last year so we had been working up to it for this year until the second lockdown in December.

"We are truly disappointed especially when we only have the Olympic trials every four years.

"They are both disappointed to miss out on this amazing experience but they have both handled it with such maturity.

"The competition calendar is still unclear for the year ahead but I am sure they will have many more opportunities to participate in such events in the future."

l Inverclyde Amateur Swimming Club have spaces for new members, especially in the six to nine years group.

Youngsters who have completed the swimming lesson programme are eligible to come for assessment.

Parents can email membership secretary Sarah at membershipsec.inverclydeasc@gmail.com