A TEAM of disabled swimmers who won gold in a swimming challenge were treated to a bonus prize when Olympic diver Tom Daley congratulated them.

Students at Whitefields School in MacDonald Road, Walthamstow, were crowned champions of the London heat at this year’s Panathlon Swimming Challenge.

The charity event took place at London Aquatics Centre in Olympic Park, Stratford, on Friday (March 24).

Maria Papazoglou, PE teacher at Whitefields School, said: “It has gone very well, we have improved a lot since the last Panthalon competition. It has taught the students about competition and how they need to train hard for these events.

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One of the students at Whitefields Academy taking part in the race.

“They have practiced a lot and the school has been incredibly supportive.

“One of the team was a little worried after the events in London on Wednesday but we spoke with his parents and he is really pleased he came now.”

Mr Daley, who is twice diving world champion, said: “I think it is a fantastic charity. The more people, of all abilities, that you can get involved in sport and health and fitness in a fun and engaging way can only be a good thing.

“And to have this event at the London Aquatics Centre is just another example of the legacy of London 2012.”

The children were also congratulated by Paralympian swimmer and Panathlon ambassador Liz Johnson.

Ms Johnson said: “Panathlon offers a competitive sporting environment for all. So often it is seen that for minority or disadvantaged groups, taking part is enough but you can learn so much from competitive sport.

“In my own swimming career, I have learnt about winning, losing, travelling, new environments and working together in a team.”

The students are now training towards the Panathlon Divisional Swimming Finals in July.