Victory in Clacton gave Basildon and District SC five wins from five galas and, more importantly, secured their third successive Essex league promotion.

Topping the second division table with a 100 per cent record means they become the first club in the competition to achieve three back-to-back promotions.

"The success is down to the fact that the club can reply on superb individual performances from its swimmers and that there is such a strength in depth of talent," said coach Gary Stopford.

Published Wednesday, April 16, 2003

Brought to you by the Evening Echo