More than 60 pupils from schools all over Southampton and the surrounding area took part in the first-ever Southampton Schools Diving Competition, held at the Quays.

The competition, funded by a grant from the National Lottery's Awards for All organisation, was set up by the Southampton Diving Academy on behalf of the Southampton Schools' Sports Association. It attracted entrants from 43 schools.

The winner for each category received a trophy, which they will retain for a year. There were medals for the first three positions a rosette for fourth place.

There was a trophy for the school scoring the most points for their top four divers in both the primary and secondary sectors.

The competition was opened by Peter Waterfield, Commonwealth gold medallist, who began with a spectacular dive from the 10m board.

He then joined other members of the Academy's elite diving squad in a comedy routine.

The elite squad treated spectators to an outstanding display of diving from poolside and boards, showing the range of expertise in the club which is giving it such success in the world of diving this year.

Director of coaching Lindsey Fraser was delighted with the success of the day.

"It was very satisfying to give some of our newest divers the opportunity to compete," she said.

"Most of the entrants had never entered a diving competition before and have only been diving for a very short time.

"Despite this, they gave an excellent performance - Southampton should be proud of their youngsters."

A very large team of coaches and officials was needed to make the day a success, all giving their time as volunteers.

Many of the club's teenage members were able to use the occasion as a training opportunity for coaching or judging and threw themselves into the event with great enthusiasm.

"All the children seemed to really enjoy themselves and were great fun to work with," explained coach, Ellie Clewlow, 17.

"I was very impressed with their confidence, they were a real credit to their schools."

Medals were presented by Richard Steel, from Hampshire Funeral Services, the Diving Academy's major sponsor.