Those showing the most potential will join the United Bristol Swimming Club (UBSC), which has been formed to create a top level performance programme that will help swimmers reach their full potential.

The founding partners of UBSC are Bristol Penguins, Bristol Henleaze, Bristol North, University of Bristol and UWE Bristol, but other clubs are also being invited to join.

All members of the partner clubs will now follow a pathway for performance swimming, including bronze, silver and gold milestones, with those achieving the top times and showing most potential being entered into the performance programme. 

Club coaches within the partnership will work with and be mentored by high-profile coach Jez Birds, the newly appointed Director of Performance Swimming, who has coached many nationally ranked swimmers.

Simon Hinks, Director of Sport at the University of Bristol, said: “The University of Bristol has an outstanding record in student water polo but has perhaps underachieved in swimming. We believe that this programme will enhance the opportunities for our student swimmers to reach both their sporting and academic potential. It also allows us to provide additional support and expertise to swimmers outside the University who have outstanding ability.”

The new partnership means that facilities can be shared, with the majority of training sessions taking place in Bristol University’s newly refurbished swimming pool.