Emily Harrison pipped swimmers from across the Medway Amateur Swimming Association to the Westover Trophy.

The 11-year-old, who swims for the Sheerness Swimming Club & Lifeguard Corps, took the annual accolade which is in recognition of a swimmer’s endeavour during the five championship galas held by the association.

Harrison, from Sheerness, was chosen from a shortlist of 10 swimmers who have yet to collect a top three medal from all of the clubs involved in last year’s competitions.

Despite lacking medals, her coach Irene Dunn, who is also the club chairman, had little doubt that she would in the future and praised the youngster’s desire.

She said: "Emily always trains hard every week, always gives 100 per cent at galas and deserves this award in recognition of her effort.

"She’s got potential and if I had 10 of her I would win a gala easily. She puts the hard work in and is always trying.

"Her enthusiasm is beyond belief. She loves to do her best and is always saying ‘can we do this and practice that’.

"If you ask her to do something she will have a go even if she doesn’t think she can do it.

"She puts everything into her swimming and I’m now hoping she achieves a top three place at an event. She deserves to. Emily is full on and wants to get there."

Harrison received the award from the president of the Medway ASA, Janet Gifford, at their general meeting held at Medway Park in Gillingham on Saturday.