THEY are nearly namesakes - and both are great performers when it comes to swimming..

Louise Barton, eight, and Louis Benoit, nine, were the stars of a "Tadpole Gala" at Thirsk swimming pool.

They took the top places in the competition held by the Thirsk White Horse Swim Team.

The gala is a chance for swimmers aged nine and under to compete in a friendly environment before joining in regional and national competitions.

Made up of 25-metre races for all four strokes, swimmers compete with each other and points are allocated based on places.

"It’s important for young swimmers to be encouraged in their chosen sport," said organiser Myles Strudwick.

"The Tadpole Gala provides an environment where both skills and competitiveness can be nurtured, helping to develop confident and able swimmers for the future."