23.08.2006
SURPRISE, SURPRISE AS SWIMMING STAR POPS IN TO HONOUR CERYS

BARRY’S gold medal winner, local swimming star David Davies, was the ‘mystery visitor’ at Palmerston Primary School recently.

The 21-year-old, was there to make a special presentation to eight-year-old pupil Cerys, who submitted a winning entry in a competition run by the Sports Council for Wales (in conjunction with the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne earlier this year).

A school spokesman said: “Pupils were thrilled to greet the swimmer, who has already won medals at the Commonwealth Games — a gold he was proud to show the children — and at the Olympics and the World Championships.

“David responded by talking about his busy training regime, answering a series of questions and fulfilling the many requests for his autograph.”

The competition challenged a number of schools in Wales and Australia to produce a picture depicting the ambience of t h e Commonwealth Games, and Cerys’ winning entry brought her a special Melbourne 2006 goody bag.

The unique artwork from the winning entries - Cerys’ design in green and blue depicted two hands coming together over the earth, illustrating how different ethnic cultures embrace — was printed on the back of the Welsh flag and carried out by Team Wales during the Games opening ceremony.

Assistant Dragon Sport co-ordinator for the Vale Hanna Guise, said: “It was lovely to organise this treat for the children, who are avid supporters of the local swimming legend. He is a fantastic role model and exemplifies what hard work and dedication can bring.”

Thanking David for making time to visit young fans and budding swimmers, Hanna added: “I’m sure the children of Palmerston will never forget their special mystery visitor.”

Pupils from Palmerston are part of the Sports Council's Dragon Sports scheme aiming to get more primary school children involved in extra-curricular sport.