Emotional tributes have been paid to two women who helped to promote disabled swimming in the region.

The tributes were made as 45 swimmers turned out to compete at Waterlane Leisure Centre in Lowestoft for the 18th Suffolk Swimability Meet. 

Lowestoft Journal: Some of the Suffolk swimmers including members of Team Waveney, officials, members of Lowestoft Lions and Team GB Paralympic team member Ellie ChallisSome of the Suffolk swimmers including members of Team Waveney, officials, members of Lowestoft Lions and Team GB Paralympic team member Ellie Challis (Image: Mick Howes)

Before the racing started organiser and Suffolk disability officer, Ann Byrne, paid tribute and led a round of applause in honour of two women who had been heavily involved in disabled swimming but had died since the event was last held in 2019. 

She said: “Cheryl Betts was a long-serving coach and a great friend to so many at Team Waveney.

"Cheryl had been bravely battling cancer for a number of years and sadly died in September 2021. 

“Cheryl helped develop swimming for hundreds of swimmers over the many years that she was coach for at Lowestoft and then Team Waveney.

"Cheryl also played a lead role in the club in the running and development of disability swimming.

"Cheryl had supported the development of the swim academy at Team Waveney and helped put together the awards programme we use today. 

“Nicola Baxter was a long-term supporter and volunteer with Special Olympians Norfolk accompanying athletes to regional and national competitions and supporting her son Shane at the World Summer Games in 2018.

"She was the force behind SON swimming group and the one who made it the family it is today." 

Mrs Byrne also mentioned Liam Roderick, a swimmer from Great Yarmouth and Waveney Special Olympians who had died in December 2022. 

Showing her support for swimmers at the event was Ellie Challis, a member of Team GB Paralympics who won a silver medal for the women’s 50m backstroke at Tokyo.

Lowestoft Journal: Ethan Miller with Lions president Eric MooreEthan Miller with Lions president Eric Moore (Image: Mick Howes)

The Swimability Meet was sponsored by Lowestoft Lions Club, which also assisted Swim England (Suffolk) with running the event.

Lowestoft Journal: Cassie Hill with Lions member Eric MooreCassie Hill with Lions member Eric Moore (Image: Mick Howes)

Cassie Hill won the Best Female trophy, Ethan Miller was awarded Best Male and Beau Sales won the Lions trophy for effort and enthusiasm.