OLLIE Heard has scooped first place overall in the Exmoor Open Water Swim at the age of just 12.

The challenge, which takes place on Wimbleball Reservoir in Exmoor is arguably the most prestigious open water swimming event in the South West with elite swimmers drawn from across the UK. 

More than 500 competitors jumped in and braved a swim in the chilly 16 deg C water competing in the 2km or 4km events.

Ollie Heard, from West Buckland, near Wellington, and a Taunton School pupil, achieved an amazing time of 26.07 and was first overall in the 2km after beating over 126 adults. 

His Taunton School compatriot, Macey Barrett, 12, from Trull, and teacher Sarah Nicholls were second and third in the ladies category, respectively. 

The youngest competitors, who only turned 12 in June, were Taunton Prep School pupils Amber Wilson (79th) and Helen Hounslow (78th), who supported each other around the course. 

Peers Emily Halliday (15th), Josh Green (9th) and Darcie Coleman (16th) also represented Taunton Preparatory School - the only school participating - all finishing in the top half of competitors.

Hamish McCarthy, swim coach at Taunton School, said “The boys and girls stood this tough test magnificently.”