A NEWLY qualified swimming teacher has just been voted the best in the borough.

Jamie Johnson, based at Copeland Leisure Centre in Hensingham, will now go through to a regional semi-final. If successful, he will then go forward to a national judging day at the London Aquatics Centre in Stratford.

Jamie said: “As I haven’t been teaching for very long I was really surprised to be nominated. But it is great to be recognised by everyone that voted for me and is a real boost to my confidence.

“This has spurred me on to want to complete my next level teaching qualification.”

Jamie teaches regular classes as part of the leisure centre’s Learn to Swim Programme and was nominated in the Swimming Teacher of the Year Awards by a combination of pupils, parents and work colleagues.

Alan Burns, leisure centre manager, said: “Jamie is a hugely dedicated and hardworking individual. Despite being early on in his teaching career he has already inspired and encouraged a huge range of swimmers to enjoy and benefit from their time in the water.

“He is able to make even the most nervous swimmer feel comfortable and confident in the water, while encouraging the more able to progress and hone their skills.”