The future of water polo could be under threat following funding cuts

Nick Hume has resigned as British Swimming's national performance director for water polo, citing the shortfall in funding through to 2012.

Water polo was one of eight Olympic sports affected by the UK Sport cuts, announced last year in December.

It means the sport's hopes of competing in the London Games and its long-term future have been greatly affected.

"Lack of funding for water polo is a concern for all of us," said British Swimming chief executive David Sparkes.

British Swimming recently agreed a sponsorship deal with British Gas across all four disciplines worth £15m, which will provide some investment for water polo, but athletes and coaches remain fearful for the future.

"We have been making good progress to address the issue," added Sparkes.

"However, we respect Nick's decision and we wish him well with his career and thank him for his significant contribution."

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