TAVISTOCK Swim-ming Club is pleased to announce the appointment of James Lake as new head coach.

James began his new role with the club this week.

The club has been without a head coach for a period of time and is delighted at securing the services of James.

Club chairman, Neil Marks said: 'We are looking forward to James, as a level 3 coach, providing the coaching direction that the club has been seeking for a period of time.

'This Olympic year represents an exciting time at the club and we now have an enthusiastic coach that can assist swimmers in improving their performance and achieving their goals.'

After swimming at Tavistock Swimming Club, James also swam with Kelly College and Plymouth Leander, achieving national levels and winning a number of high standard medals. 

Since hanging up the racing goggles, James has been working as a swim teacher and coach running two swim schools for the biggest health clubs in Plymouth. Now James has returned to Tavistock he is ready to provide plenty of enthusiasm and energy to help Tavistock Swimming Club write a new and exciting chapter in their history.

He said: 'I feel very delighted to be back to my home club, from swimming here at a young age and now to be the head coach, I am grateful for the opportunity.

'Any budding young swimmers inspired by what is happening in the Olympic pool — please come down and join us.

'I have built a wealth of knowledge and experience working with a range of standards, which has been both challenging and rewarding. It's helped me to be a better coach and to understand and coach the individual.'

James aims to introduce a two-year development plan to increase awareness and standards for current swimmers assisting the swimmers to strive toward achieving championship times.

With James' direction the club is also seeking to introduce masters sessions and would welcome contact with those adults who may be interested in joining with a view to a return to competitive swimming or training.