Pembroke and District Swimming Club held an evening of swimming with a difference on Friday, when Olympic swimmer Mel Marshall of Team GB, who has just returned from Beijing, visited the club.
One of Britain's most successful swimmers, 26-year-old Mel from Lincolnshire has taken part in three Olympics and been a world record holder.
In 2006, she became England's most prolific woman competitor at a single Commonwealth Games, when she won six medals - overtaking the records of June Croft, Karen Pickering and Karen Legg.
She spent Friday evening teaching the club members about many different aspects of swimming, including technique, skills and fitness.
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Mel was supported by the club coaches David Thompson and Francis Bunker, club volunteers and Paul Dowey, swimming development coach for Pembrokeshire County Council.
Paul said it was a very motivating evening.
"Mel came across as very enthusiastic and supportive," he said.
"Part of the reason for inviting her was to encourage female swimmers in the club and they responded very well to her."
Mel's visit supports Paul's aim of the promotion of elite swimming in the county.
He is intending to develop an elite pathway for swimmers and set up a new skills squad to develop potential young swimmers. He is also aiming to establish an elite club - comprised of all the best young swimmers in the county - who will train in Haverfordwest's brand new pool when it opens next year (2009).
Pembroke and District Swimming Club thanked everyone who helped make this a special evening, in particular the manager of Pembroke Leisure centre, James Walters, and his staff, who prepared everything for Mel's arrival.
Pembroke and District Swimming club meets at Pembroke Leisure Centre on Friday evenings between 6 pm and 10 pm and welcomes new members.
For more information contact Pembroke Leisure Centre on 01646 684434 or come along to a club evening.