KELLY College swimmer Louise Watkin set a new European record in Sheffield last week, proving she is in top form for the Beijing Paralympics in September.

The 15-year-old set the record on her way to gold in the women's 200 metre individual medley at the ASA National Youth Championships at Ponds Forge International Sports Centre on Thursday.

Louise won in 2mins 40.37secs ahead of schoolmates Claire Cashmore, 20, who won silver and Lauren Steadman, 15, who finished fourth. All three go to Beijing on August 23 for the September games.

Louise said she had not been expecting the record time. 'This week has been hard physically and mentally and all I wanted to do was my best. To get the record is a bonus,' she said.

She said she wanted to show the world who she was and get a medal at the Paralympics. She also won the women's 50m freestyle in 30:45 ahead of Lauren in 30:54.

Claire Cashmore, who won two bronze medals in the Athens Paralympics Games, broke the British record in the 100m breaststroke at Ponds Forge.

Coach Robin Brew, who will be going with them to Beijing as the British coach, said all three had terrific results. 'They were quite remarkable. Claire is now ranked second in the world in the 100m breaststroke and Louise is second in the medley.

'I think they've worked really hard for the last two years and there is a huge sense of anticipation at this stage. "Enjoyment" doesn't do it justice!' Robin said.

'It is a nervous phase in anyone's career, stepping into the arena. They have worked hard and are getting ready to do the best they can for themselves and their country.'

Tim Reddish, national performance director of British Disability Swimming, said Louise was a very hard worker and never quitted. 'She is in a very competitive category in Beijing and will be competing against South African Natalie Du Toit, so competition will be tough, but I'm certain she will do her best,' he said.

Although all three come from outside Devon, with Louise being born in Stockholm, they live in Tavistock for 48 weeks of the year.