Long-serving Bluefins volunteer Tony Bamberger has been recognised for more than two decades of dedication to disability and inclusive swimming after receiving a Mayor’s Award from the outgoing Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane. The award was presented during the Mayor Making ceremony held in the Council Chamber at the Civic Offices on Thursday 14 May, where Councillor Jacky Tustain was formally installed as the new Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, succeeding Councillor Colin Phi

Competitive swimming is about development, standards and belonging. Phoebe’s journey through Bluefins shows what is possible when opportunity and expectation sit side by side. From Sharks Disability Squad to the competitive pathway, from mainstream meets to para classification, her story reflects integration, resilience and steady progression.