Paralympic champion Ellie Simmonds has expressed her concern after it was confirmed that swimming participation in the country has dropped by 245,000.

Sport England confirmed last week that figures in swimming, which is still the country's most popular sport, have fallen by 8%.

"It is a big shock," Simmonds told the Press Association. "I know on the list swimming is the highest sport for participation, but it is quite a shock that the number has dropped down in such a way. I don't know the reasons why, but it is a shame because swimming is a life skill.

"We live on an island, we are close to rivers, lakes and the sea, and it is really important for us to be safe around water. And swimming is such good exercise. I know I would say it because I love swimming, but it really is a good sport."

Despite the decline, 2.6 million people go swimming weekly.