HARWICH Swimming Club travelled to Becontree to compete in the final round of the Essex League and finished in second place, behind Saffron Seals.

It ensured that they maintained second place overall and probable promotion to division two next year.

There were individual first places for Jack Howlett, in the open butterfly and freestyle, Ruby Hammond, in the 13 and under and 15 and under backstroke, Zachary Herbert, in the 15 and under breaststroke, Daryl Rands, in the open breaststroke, Tommy Cooper, in the 13 and under freestyle, Matthew Kent, in the 11 and under backstroke, and Louis Walker, in the 11 and under breaststroke.

The open boys, the 13 and under girls and the 11 and under boys' relay teams also won both their freestyle and medley relays.

Personal bests were gained by Alex French, in the 13 and under backstroke, Gracie Joslin, in the 11 and under freestyle, Zachary Herbert, in the 15 and under breaststroke, Joshua Herbert, in the 15 and under freestyle, Tommy Cooper, in the 13 and under freestyle, and Lewis Overton, in the 13 and under butterfly.

Swimmer of the gala was awarded to Ruby Hammond, for her two first places, including the 100m backstroke in the age group above her own.

The final points of the gala were Saffron Seals 199, Harwich 168, Hornchurch and Leyton 140 and Eltham 84.

Harwich travel to Hornchurch tomorrow to take part in the third round of the Essex Mini League.