STARSTRUCK young swimmers and their coaches got the chance to quiz a Commonwealth and Olympic swimming star during a special online session.

Members of Inverclyde Amateur Swimming Club tuned into a Zoom Q&A with Hannah Miley, who has been competing at the very top of the sport since 2006.

With Commonwealth, European and World Championship titles to her name, the whole club was excited for the chance to hear about her exploits first hand.

Swimmers were asked to submit their questions in advance and over 90 took part across two sessions which covered everything from training and competing to nutrition and motivation.

Hannah was also asked about her other interests and hobbies, with many people wanting to know how she was keeping fit and motivated during the lockdown.

A spokesperson for the club said: "She said that this was the longest period of time she had been out of the water since learning to swim at the age of three.

"Like everyone, she has been doing all she can to retain her fitness and keep her spirits up, with cycling, running and walking her puppy, who made a personal appearance in the first session."

Throughout lockdown the club’s head coach Shirley Reford has been using the time to educate swimmers on different aspects of the sport.

Zoom seminars have been delivered on racing tactics, good nutrition and developing mental strength.

The club spokesperson added: "Hannah echoed all the points Shirley has made and it was great for the swimmers to hear it from someone at the top of their sport. Hannah was also impressed with the programme of classes the club was delivering via Zoom to help the swimmers maintain their fitness and motivation.

WWhat came across clearly in both sessions was her love for her sport and the simple joy that swimming brings to her life. She stressed that there are no shortcuts to success."

Swimmers, coaches and parents alike loved the session and were motivated and inspired, not only by the chance to speak to Hannah, but the many useful pieces of advice she gave.

Club captains Molly Cannon and Kian McNelis said: “All of us were honoured and over the moon to have such a fantastic opportunity to speak with one of the biggest names in British swimming.

"We’ve learned so much, and she was so friendly and encouraging. We’re so grateful to Gordon McArthur and Beeks Financial Cloud for their sponsorship which helped make this happen.”