Sheffield water babe champ Daniel - aged three years and nine months - wouldn't let go of the trophy

The annual Sheffield & District Water Babies Cup at Ponds Forge was won by Oughtibridge youngster Daniel Smith, just three years and nine months old.
Daniel Smith with his trophy  at Ponds ForgeDaniel Smith with his trophy  at Ponds Forge
Daniel Smith with his trophy at Ponds Forge

Normally the trophy is won by a four or five year old.

His father Justin said he and Daniel’s mum Sarah first took him swimming at 11 weeks and were taking him three times a week by his second birthday.

Justin said: “He loves it. He first swam a width (10m) at 2yrs 9mths, and 25m a week before his third birthday. Interestingly his stroke rather regressed whilst doing this swim. He was very happy holding the cup though, he wouldn’t let go of it for hours!”