THE West Devon schools swimming gala reached an exciting climax at Parklands Leisure Centre, Okehampton earlier this month. The gala, which was attended by school children aged four to six, was presided over by members of the team who voluntarily gave up their free time to help run the event. The event has been hosted for ten years in a row at the centre and nine schools compete in two leagues. After a gruelling competition South Tawton were crowned the winners of the large school league whilst Bridestowe School were victorious in the smaller school league. In total 120 children took part in the competition while 45 parents, grandparents and well-wishers cheered and offered encouragement. Dave Smith, general manager at Parklands, said: 'A massive thank you should go to the volunteers who helped with the event, alongside the schools' staff, children and parents. Well done to everyone who took part in the gala, we were all very impressed by the determination shown by all participants. A special thanks must go to Mike Reynolds, Will Cooper, Mervyn and Joe Rice from the centre who helped run, organise and score the school gala in their own time.'