A NORTHWICH swimmer has clinched the Sports Personality of the Year Crown at the Special Olympics in Jersey.

Lizzie Owen, who attends Mid Cheshire College’s Winsford Campus, won a silver medal in the 100 metres freestyle, as well as overall personality.

The 48 year-old is a member of Cheshire Penguins and has been a keen attendee of the club for the past 18 years.

“I have won 73 medals and trophies during the 18 years I have been a member” said Lizzie enthusiastically.

The Cheshire Penguins compete regularly in the Special Olympics at various venues throughout the UK.

There are approximately 150 clubs providing training and competition programmes in 26 sports.

The Paralympics provides sports competitions for elite level disabled athletes with physical and sensory disabilities, including intellectual disabilities, while Special Olympics fosters community sport year-round at all levels for those with intellectual disabilities.

Lizzie has attended Mid Cheshire College on and off since 2000 on skills for life programmes and is currently attending the Winsford Campus one day each week on an art and crafts course as part of the independent living course.

“I really enjoy the course and coming to college, I have also made lots of friends” Lizzie added.

Special Olympics offers a lifetime of learning through sport and benefits individuals of all ages and ability levels – from those with low motor abilities to highly skilled athletes.