Darren Mew wants GB to compete with Australia

World, European and Commonwealth medallist Darren Mew wants the government to fund swimming initiatives to help GB thrive in the sport.

"It's hugely important that youngsters get the chance to swim from an early age," he told BBC Radio Shropshire.

The Isle of Wight-born 50m breaststroke star, now Ellesmere Titans coach, said: "Grassroot swimming needs backing.

"Get the kids in the water early, they'll meet new friends, and if they enjoy it all they'll keep going."

Bath swimmer Mew has competed all over the world and in two Olympics Games.

He said: "I was taken to my local pool by my parents when I was quite young - and they would hardly have thought that 20 years later I'd be swimming in the likes of Australia.

"That's why I hope the government will bring in this free-for-all swimming initiative, and then hopefully swimming can grow and grow in this country over the coming years."