Paralympic swimmer Jones quits

Former double Paralympic champion Natalie Jones has announced her retirement from swimming after more than 13 years at the top of the sport.

The 28-year-old competed in four Paralympic Games, the highlight coming in Athens in 2004 when she won gold in the SM6 200 metres individual medley and the 4x50m medley relay (20 points).

Jones, who made her international debut aged 15, also claimed three Paralympic bronze medals, the last coming in London last summer when she was third in the 200m individual medley.

The Colchester-born swimmer said: “I have had a fantastic 13 years at the top of the sport.

“I have had ups and downs in my career but mainly ups and times that I will take with me and remember forever.

“I have won five Paralympic medals which is a big achievement and one I am very proud of but it was getting to the point where my mind was saying yes let’s do this and my body was saying no.

“I also want to thank Andy [Scanlon] and Steve [Heaps] for taking me on in November and also my friends and family. Without them I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

National performance director Chris Furber added: “She has made a significant contribution to swimming in her 13-year career, and is a fantastic ambassador for the sport.”