SWIMMER Ellie Bainbridge thanked those who voted for her after becoming The Shuttle’s Sports Personality of the Year.

The 12-year-old topped a thrilling battle over Christmas and new year, obtaining 40 per cent of the online ballot.

She pipped William Richardson (30 per cent), Duncan Gwilliams (18), Olivia Turner and Claire Cashmore.

The former Holy Trinity School pupil is now a member of Ellesmere College and is under the tutelage of former Wyre Forest Swimming Club head coach.

She won her age group at the National Open Water Championships in August and was selected for phase one of the England Talent Programme in September at Warwick and Loughborough Universities.

Father James Bainbridge said: “Ellie was surprised and delighted to be nominated for an award that has had so many notable athletes as previous winners and to also be in the company of so many other high performance nominees.

Who knows what the future holds, but she is loving her sport, loves to race and is both pleased and proud to be the recipient of the Kidderminster Shuttle Sports Personality 2015 award.

“She’d like to thank everyone who voted for her.”