MEADOWLANDS in Tavistock is bidding farewell to one of its longest serving swimming teachers at the end of August.

Wendy Pullyblank, who has taught swimming at Meadowlands for the past 20 years, is to retire at the end of the summer.

Wendy was presented with a bouquet by fellow teachers and Dave Smith, business manager at Meadowlands.

Having taught and coached many swimmers at the centre, Wendy is also qualified to instruct disabled swimmers and has specialised in this during her time at Meadowlands.

She said: 'The highlight of my teaching career was coaching Jan Langton to swim for England. Jan came to me when she was 12 years old and stayed for eight years.

'Today she is part of the Kelly squad and a successful international swimmer. It's a fantastic achievement for her and I'm thrilled to have been a part of it.'

Wendy served for 14 years in the Royal Navy starting in 1962 and has served with submarines and The Fleet Air Arm.

Chris Gallie, swim school principal, said: 'Wendy will be a hard act to follow. She's been an essential part of the swimming team here at Meadowlands and will be greatly missed.'