TWO Pembrokeshire swimmers have been picked to represent Wales in a prestigious schools competition.

Hannah Saunders and Carys Thomas will take part in the Sainsbury’s 2012 School Games, which will be held in the Olympic Park’s Aquatic Centre, in May.

Both girls train with the Pembrokeshire County Swimming Performance Squad.

Fourteen-year-old Hannah is a member of the Tenby Dolphins Swimming Club. This is her second selection for the UK School Games and she will swim in individual and relay events.

Carys, 14, swims with the Pembroke and District Club and will also race in individual and relay events. This is the third time she has been picked for the UK School Games.

Pembrokeshire swimming development coach Paul Dowey, who trains both Hannah and Carys in the Performance Squad, said he was delighted at their success.

“Both girls train and work very hard and their selection is well deserved,” he said.

“The 2012 School Games is a prestigious multi-sport event and it’s a great honour to be picked.”

Meanwhile Lauren Sutton, from Pembroke and District Swimming Club, has also been selected to act as a senior official at the event. Mr Dowey added that Lauren had demonstrated great professionalism and maturity to be chosen for her role.

The Sainsbury’s 2012 School Games – which will be held between May 6th and 9th – aim to build on the excitement and inspiration of the forthcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Mirroring the Games to come, it will have its own opening and closing ceremonies and will be hosted at four Olympic venues including the Olympic Stadium, Velodrome, ExCel Centre and Aquatic Centre.

Around 1,600 of the UK’s leading young athletes will take part across a range of 12 Olympic and Paralympic sports.