IT was medals galore for Ramsbottom Rascals who returned from the summer break in brilliant form.

They showed no sign of a holiday hangover in the Warburtons Gala at Broughton pool on Sunday.

In total the Rascals picked up six medals with top honours going to the club's 17-year-old captain Matt Wood and 13 year old Gemma Bromby. Matt from Tottington took first place in the 100m fly.

Gemma took double gold in the 100m backstroke and 50m butterfly and in doing so defeated her arch rival Tyldesley's Sara Wood.

Picking up a silver was Laura Spencer aged 12 from Brandlesholme in the 50m free style, as did Ben Mallen in the 100m butterfly.

Top six placings also went to Jodie Wood in the challenging 200m individual medley and Emma Hughes in the 100m freestyle.

Coach Marc Smith said: "I was pleased. None of our members is swimming at a peak at the moment, but what I have seen gives us a solid base to work from. Obviously many of our top swimmers have been maintaining their training schedules."

The Rascals have also been back in domestic action with the senior league team defeating Atherton 28-12.

Chief coach Rick Wesolowski noted some promising swims so early after the summer break.

He pointed out for particular praise debutants Richard Marks and Francis Grady.

The team remains second in the league which means the gala against leaders Tyldesley next month will be vital if the Rascals are to lift the championship. Rascals off to a flyer