WINNING a countywide award for his coaching was a “humbling” experience for Michael Kent.

This year’s Performance and Development Coach of the Year prize at the Cornwall Sports Award went to the man from Carn Brea and Helston Swimming Club.

Kent has been with the club for five years and said he was pleased to win the gong.

“I feel very honoured and humbled to have received this award,” he said.

“It is an accumulation of all the hard work that club committee have put in and the support they have given me.

“The most rewarding aspect of my position is seeing average swimmers becoming fast skilful competitive athletes in the water and achieving far beyond what they expected themselves.”

He went onto praise the work put in by other members at the club who help provide a space for swimmers of all ages and skill range to thrive.

Kent said: “The special aspect of our club is that from the age of five upwards, there is a squad for every level of swimming ability with 14 different squads overall.

“Together with the dedicated volunteer teaching staff, every child is able to be the best that they can and develop essences life saving skills.”