SWIMMING: When Deben Swimming Club lost one of its much-loved instructors to cancer last year, members were adamant her memory would be honoured. Jo Young, a Woodbridge mum and genuine lover of children, had willingly given many hours of her time to voluntary coaching at her local pool – and her smile had never waned.

WHEN Deben Swimming Club lost one of its much-loved instructors to cancer last year, members were adamant her memory would be honoured.

Jo Young, a Woodbridge mum and genuine lover of children, had willingly given many hours of her time to voluntary coaching at her local pool – and her smile had never waned.

In fact, even through the toughest times of her short life – and even while she was undergoing vigorous and frustrating medical treatments – Jo had still turned up poolside, week in, week out.

So this week, in a fitting tribute to her relentless dedication, Deben's swimmers were finally able to mark her name.

The club has made its first presentation of a new youngsters trophy deservedly named after Jo.

The Jo Young Shield, which will now be given as a reward to one of the club's younger swimmers every month, was officially handed over to five year-old Catherine Tween.

The trophy was presented by Jo's husband, Simon.

"I was really touched to hear that the club had been planning to honour Jo in that way," he said.

"I had been thinking about donating a trophy myself, but it managed to beat me to it.

"It's nice that it's marking the achievements of the younger swimmers, because Jo was always so fond of youngsters.

"Not only did she teach the little ones at the pool, she was also a creche worker – so she was definitely really good with children."

He added: "Jo was a really special person so I'm pleased that this is being done in her name. You couldn't ask for a better tribute."

The couple's two children, Georgina, 13, and Tom, 14 – both helpers at the club – were also present for the first award ceremony.