FARNWORTH schoolboy Luke Batty made a big splash at the National Para Swimming Championships in Manchester, scooping six gold medals.

The 11-year-old St James’ High School pupil won titles in the 50m, 100m and 400m freestyle, 100m backstroke, 100m butterfly and 200m individual medley in the S9 under-14s category.

His performances at last Saturday's championships established Luke as the top u14s para swimmer in the country, despite the majority of his rivals being two years older than him.

Dad Mick Batty said: “We are so proud of Luke. He puts so much into swimming and takes all the advice his coaches offer him. You don’t get to be this level without giving it everything you’ve got, and Luke does this every day.”

The youngster has ulnar club hand, a rare condition that has left him with no elbow joint and only two fingers on his right hand.

That means he only has the full use of one arm, but Luke has certainly not allowed his disability to hold him back in the pool.

He has been swimming since the age of seven and after joining Bolton Metro Swim Squad was picked up by the England talent programme aged nine.

Luke spends about eight hours a week training in the pool, doing around 30km, as well as time in the gym.

His coach, Laurence Mills, said: “We are very proud of Luke, and this success shows how his hard work has paid off.

“His attitude is superb and, along with the rest of the squad, he shows huge commitment to a demanding training schedule. He is very focused and we look forward to helping him achieve all his goals.”

Club chairman Steve Howell added: “Bolton is a squad that’s going places and Luke’s success is all part of that.

“This year we have more swimmers than ever competing at higher levels.

“We know we’re the right place for young swimmers to be their best in a friendly and competitive environment.

“If your child swims for a club and wants to achieve even more, get in touch at bmss.chair@outlook.com.”