Ards Swimming Club held a reception at Blair Mayne Leisure Centre on Friday night to recognise Commonwealth Games medallists Bethany Firth and Barry McClements.

Firth won bronze in the women's S14 200m freestyle at the Glasgow games, recording a time of 2:07.63. It was Northern Ireland's first medal of the competition.

McClements claimed silver in his event, improving on his bronze from Birmingham four years earlier. He finished 0.68 seconds behind gold medallist Timothy Hodge of Australia.

The reception was attended by junior and senior club members, their families, Mayor Craig Blaney, and councillors Steven Irvine and Richard Smart.

Firth said competing for Northern Ireland at the Commonwealth Games is special because of the small community and the strong performance of local athletes. She expressed hope that the celebration would inspire younger swimmers.

McClements said the club event added to the experience of his medal, noting that the competition itself can feel brief after years of preparation.

Ards head coach Curtis Coulter, a two-time Commonwealth swimmer himself, said the recognition helps athletes feel appreciated and motivated. He also highlighted that six club swimmers represented Northern Ireland in Glasgow: Firth, McClements, Victoria Catterson, Grace Davison, Paddy Johnston, and Ellie McCartney.