Talented youngsters from Irvine and Kilwinning were among the local athletes celebrating being crowned champions at the annual North Ayrshire Swimming Awards.

A total of 30 trophies were handed out in a ceremony at Saltcoats Town Hall to the swimmers who came out top over rounds of the club championships and winners chosen by the coaches for their performances during the last year.

Described by his coach, Alan Dickson, as “fiercely competitive”, Lewis Gibson from Kilwinning was called up to receive the 11-year-old boys shield.

Alan picked out another Kilwinning swimmer, Fraser Mathie, 14, as the recipient of this year’s Junior Coach’s award, saying: “He’s always trying his best in training and asking questions of me as a coach and listens hard.”

Adam Currie, from Irvine, was presented with the 13-year-old boy trophy with club head coach, Jess Wilkie, paying tribute to his dedication: “Adam always challenges himself when he gets in the water and he loves racing.”

Swimming sisters Evie and Caelin Chan, from Stevenston, received an award each.

Caelin collected the 11-year-old girls trophy and younger sister, Evie, 10, received Alan Dickson’s nomination for the Junior Coach’s Award.

Erin Patten, 11, from Kilwinning, was named as the North Ayrshire Synchro squad’s swimmer of the year.

“She’s been a force of nature and is a joy to work with,” said coach, Helen Ternent. “She’s always got a smile on her face and is asking questions. She’s a real team player and supports everybody.”

Adam Saunderson, 10, was chosen by Jess to receive the Development Squad prize for boys. She told the audience at the event: “He’s worked extremely hard. Every session he pushes himself that little bit harder to be the best he can be.”