WHEN it came to finding a worthy recipient for a swimming scholarship at the Meadowlands swimming pool in Tavistock, one 12-year-old girl has proved to be a few lenghths ahead of anyone else. The award has gone to Tavistock College student Jessica Dingle, who despite suffering from a condition called arthrogryposis, has taken to the pool like a duck to water. Jessica, who started swimming when she was six, has seen her mobility improve — thanks to her efforts in the pool. Her arthrogryposis means that she has very stiff joints and some muscle weakness, mainly in her shoulders and in her elbows. Swimming has been particularly helpful in alleviating her elbow stiffness. Chris Gallie, SwimSchool co-ordinator at Meadowlands, said: 'I find Jessica amazing. 'She cannot raise her arms and finds difficulty in straightening them. 'She always tries whatever is asked of her without complaint. She never says "I can't do that", even when what is being asked may be, for her, quite daunting. 'Always smiling and willing to take up any challenge, she is a valued addition to her class in SwimSchool.' The level which Jessica is working at — level eight — is quite hard. One of the requirements is to begin learning the butterfly stroke, which is difficult to do without any handicaps. However, Jessica is well on the way to completing this level. It is the second time that Jess has won this scholarship at Meadowlands, as it was given to her previously three years ago, but the judges have obviously obviously been impressed by her determination and positive attitude. Jessica's mum Diane said: 'Jessica just loves her swimming and the exercise is very good for her joints. She likes going to Meadowlands, who have been very good to her and this is the second time they have given her a scholarship, which means a lot to her.' If you would like to enrol for the new term of SwimSchool, call Meadowlands on 01822 617774.
