Orlaigh (12) has sights set on being first Spalding’s paralympian

A young swimmer has ambitions to become Spalding’s first Paralympian.

Orlaigh Greer (12) was born with cerebral palsy and started swimming at the age of four as a form of physical therapy.

She soon learned to love the water and joined South Lincolnshire Swimming Club, who have supported and encouraged her to train and compete.

In November last year, following a rigorous process, Orlaigh was classified as an S10/SB9 Paraswimmer.

Nikki Saines, Orlaigh’s mum, said: “She has become Lincolnshire county para-swimming champion, has won six midland medals including a Midland gold medal in 100m backstroke, and achieved national multi- classification Paraswimming bronze medals in 100m freestyle and 100m backstroke.

“Orlaigh’s ambition is to get to the Paralympics and she would like to achieve this whilst swimming for her club, South Lincolnshire, who have been with her every step of the way, offering love, support, encouragement, opportunities.

“The club is like family to her.”

Unfortunately, the pool, at the Castle Sports complex, Spalding, in which the club trains, lacks the facilities to make this dream a reality.

She added: “It is heartbreaking to think that we would have to train elsewhere, when the love, support, coaches and everything that goes into making champions, is already at the club with the exception of the facilities.

“Spalding is a developing town, which needs a leisure facility that meets the needs of the demand.

“I’m sure the whole town would agree.”

“I would be extremely grateful if we could all work together in supporting Orlaigh.

“There is a lot of hard work ahead but I am confident if she continues along this path she will do extremely well.”

The next Paralympic games are in 2024, taking place in France, and supporters of Orlaigh’s dream include Councillor Mark Le Sage, a family friend.

Coun Le Sage said: “We want to help Orlaigh in her bid to be Spalding’s first Paralympian swimmer.

“I have known Orlaigh since she was born and in fact helped tube feed her as a baby.

“She is an amazing young woman and athlete.”

South Holland District Council has plans to redevelop the Castle Sports Complex site which at the moment is split into two.