SWIMMER Chris Walker-Hebborn insists he will bounce back after missing out on a World Championship semi-final spot in the 100m backstroke in Shanghai today.

Walker-Hebborn, who was born in Bury St. Edmunds, has now targeted success in the 200 metre backstroke event on Thursday.

The 21-year-old was narrowly beaten in the quarter-final stage by just 0.48 seconds this morning.

He finished 26th in the morning heats with a time of 54.91 seconds, covering two lengths of the pool.

Compatriot Liam Tancock, who is a British gold medallist, took fourth place with 53.84 seconds.

Despite missing out on the semi-finals, Walker-Hebborn insisted that the tournament provided ideal preparation for the 200m event.

“I wanted to bring myself back for the semi-final which was going to take a low 54 seconds or a high 53,” said Walker-Hebborn.

“A high 54 seconds was not quite good enough but I felt pretty good in the water.

“I’ve got the main event on Thursday so I will give it a real go in that.”

Walker-Hebborn collected 100m silver and 200m bronze at the British Championships in March and has had to adjust his training schedule with both events so close together in Shanghai.

“It wasn’t bad in my first race which was always going to be a little bit shaky but it’s not too bad, so hopefully there is more to come on Thursday.”

British Gas is supporting the British Gas GBR Swimming Team to win more gold medals, as part of its partnership with the sport at all levels. For more information, visit www.britishgas.co.uk/swimming.