TWO young swimmers have helped to steer a Great Britain team to victory in the World Catholic Student Games.

Scott Hathaway and Emily Surtees, both pupils at St John's RC Comprehensive School, Bishop Auckland, recorded personal best times to win a handful of medals.

They travelled to Salamanca, Spain, where they competed against athletes from more than a dozen countries.

Scott, 15, from Bishop Auckland, came home with five gold and two silver medals. Emily, 16, from Hunwick, won three gold and one bronze.

Emily said: "I made two personal bests. I was surprised but really pleased. It was great meeting new people. I made so many new friends from our country and from others as well."

The pair have been county, regional and national school champions. Emily has been swimming since she was nine and travels daily to Middlesbrough to train.

Scott has also been swimming since he was nine and trains with Derwentside Swimming Club, in Consett.

He said: "I really enjoyed it and I am proud of how many medals I have won.''

Both said that they were grateful for all the support they had received from their school, which had helped to fund the trip. Sports teacher Marise Mangles said: "The school is really really proud of them and what they have achieved. Hopefully, next year we will be able to get more pupils there representing us in other sports.''