Suffolk student wins bronze at European Championships

Holly Bocking from Coggeshall in Essex took part in the 7th Open European Championships held in Padova in Italy at the start of September.

The Suffolk New College, Suffolk Rural community and life skills student, picked up bronze in the T21 200m backstroke race in the tournament, organised by the Down Syndrome International Swimming Organisation.

She has previous won a bronze in the medley relay for Great Britain back in 2017 at the European Championships in France.

Holly showing her delight at winning bronze (Image: Gill Bocking)

She said: "I was involved in freestyle, breast stroke, butterfly and backstroke.

"I was really happy to win the medal.

"Swimming for my country makes me feel very proud."

Holly's mum, Gilll, said: "This was a special medal for her as she had trained hard and was after an individual medal.

Holly with her medal (Image: Gill Bocking)

"Her dad and sister who were at the championships with her were delighted with her achievement."

Principal and CEO of Suffolk New College, Alan Pease, said: "A massive well done to Holly. 

"To compete and then win a medal for your country is outstanding."

Alan Pease, Holly Bocking and Cherese Bradnum, the foundation and inclusive learning lecturer (Image: Suffolk New College)