SYNCHRONISED swimming is poised to take a greater plunge in North Yorkshire next year.

A 2002 wave odyssey is the challenge ahead of the St Alban Synchronised Swimming Club, which is based at Ampleforth College's St Alban pool.

For the past six months some 20 girls aged seven to 14 have been putting in drills and routines in the water leading to its first demonstration.

Trainer Paula Leeman described the inaugural display as 'first-class'. The hope now is that the water-work done will lead to competitive outings in the new year.

Said the coach, herself a former synchronise swimmer of six years' experience with the Rugby Club in the Midlands: "Many of the youngsters have reached grade one standard, which entails a set of routines and a set of figures, similar to ice-skating.

"Hopefully we will be entering our first competition in the new year."

Leeman is assisted by Jane Butler at the St Alban pool, where Kathy Matrass, Madeline Burgess and Rose Lawrence also help with the training sessions.

Training is each Thursday from 5pm to 6pm and Saturday from 8am to 9am.

Updated: 12:20 Friday, December 28, 2001