Erin (middle row right) with TV presenters Joanna Lumley and Gloria Hunniford

On Wednesday 27 November Erin Bain (Year 13) travelled to London as part of the Northern Irish Swim Team to compete in ‘Speedo’s Big Charity Swim – House of Lords vs House of Commons’ which was held in London’s Porchester swimming baths. The gala is held every year and this year the charity was Hope for Youth NI.

There were eight swimmers in the Northern Irish team which triumphed in a relay against a team of celebrity opponents including two of the biggest names in British swimming, Mark Foster and Duncan Goodhew.

The main race in the gala saw politicians from the House of Lords and the House of Commons, race each other in a bid to win the all-important ‘sword’.  This year the House of Commons team was victorious.

Erin was a little disappointed that the Prime Minister, who is normally an extremely competitive swimmer, was unable to attend.  British swimming icon Rebecca Addlington was also absent this year because of her participation in “I’m a Celebrity…”  Nevertheless, Erin was lucky enough to meet a few famous faces who are patrons of the charity, including Joanna Lumley, Gloria Hunniford and HRH the Duchess of Gloucester. She also received plenty of swimming kit from generous sponsors, Speedo!

Congratulations to Erin on gaining an invitation to such a prestigious event.