IT was a day of splashing, diving and some friendly water fights.

The annual primary schools’ gala, run by the Winchester City Penguins Swimming Club, saw youngsters of mixed abilities gather for some light-hearted races.

Additional-needs children swam furiously, clad in swimming goggles and brightly-coloured costumes, against their peers to take home a prize.

Each lucky participant was presented with a medal for taking part in the introduction to competitive swimming as proud parents and primary school teaching staff looked on.

Twenty-four tots with limited abilities took part in total from primary schools across the city including Harestock, Otterbourne, Weeke and Shepherd’s Down.

Sponsored by Kings School and the Winchester Round Table, medals, certificates and cuddly penguins were handed out by former paralympian Peter Hull.

Sue Falconer, acting chief executive of the club, said: “It was a fantastic morning of swimming. The children were all full of enthusiasm and there was lots of laughter. It's an event we will definitely be looking to repeat every year.”