Sixties swimming sensation Linda Ludgrove visited Number 10 Downing Street after being recognised as an inspirational woman.

The Sheppey resident and five-time Commonwealth champion joined Sittingbourne and Sheppey Conservative Parliamentary Candidate, Aisha Cuthbert as a distinguished guest attending the event.

The 76-year-old, who was once named the most successful swimmer in history, enjoyed wine and nibbles alongside other inspirational women invited to the Prime Minister’s residence with female parliamentary candidates.

Linda, who lives in Brambledown, said: “It was lovely to attend 10 Downing Street and to promote sport and swimming to the top of Government.

“If she is elected I hope to work with Aisha, who is also a former UK synchronised swimmer, to promote sport across the constituency and the country.”

Linda, who last visited No 10 as part of the country’s Olympic team in 1964, was joined by well-known Sittingbourne volunteer, Danielle Hoynes Randall.

The event was hosted by Chief Secretary to the Treasury, The Rt. Hon. Laura Trott MBE MP, and Conservative Party Deputy Chairman for Women, Rachel Maclean MP, whose role is to encourage more women to stand for public office.

Aisha Cuthbert said: “It was amazing to have Linda and Danielle join me at Downing Street.

“Linda is a retired English backstroke swimmer who held seven world records and won a number of gold medals as an Olympian during the 1960s.

“She is an inspiration to young girls across the constituency to show them that they can achieve anything they put their mind to.

“Danielle is a treasure in Sittingbourne and works tirelessly to raise money for local charities, including as a Lost and Found Volunteer for Cats Protection Swale, the chairwoman of Sittingbourne Christmas Lights; Sleigh Rounds, a voluntary organisation which runs the Christmas Lights and big Switch-On Day in Sittingbourne High Street and the Santa Sleigh Rounds across Sittingbourne.’

Laura Trott MP said: “It was wonderful to meet so many brilliant and inspiring women from across the country at Downing Street this week. Linda and Danielle are two real champions in Sittingbourne and Sheppey, and it was a real pleasure and honour to celebrate their vital work alongside Aisha Cuthbert.’