Multi-Paralympic medallist Rob Welbourn has announced his retirement from swimming after ten years at the top of the sport.
Welbourn, who is based is Swansea, has competed at three Paralympic Games winning five medals including golds in 2004 and 2008.
The British record holder has competed at every level of competition including the 2010 Commonwealth Games.
His season has culminated with him winning silver and bronze at the IPC European Championships and he signed off from his career at National Paralympic Day which was hosted at the London Aquatics Centre.
On his retirement he said: “This has been a big decision for me but I have thought long and hard about it and I think the time is right for me to take the next steps.
“I’m looking forward to the next chapter and what that will hold for me. Swimming will always be important to me and will always hold a special place in my heart.
“I have been competing for a decade and it has allowed me to be the best at what I do and compete at the best competitions around the world.
“I have so many memories from my career and swimming at the London Paralympics will always give me goosebumps but standing on top of the podium in Athens and Beijing is something I will never forget.
“I wouldn’t have achieved half of what I have without the valuable support of everyone involved in the programme so I want to thank everyone at British Swimming for their support throughout my career.”
National Performance Director Chris Furber added: “Rob has been a staple in the Para-Swimming team since his first competition – the 2004 Paralympic Games. He has won over 20 international medals in his career which shows his dedication to the sport.
“Rob has always been a good ambassador for swimming and I am sure he will have success in the future. He finished his career at the IPC European Championships and it was good for him to say goodbye to the sport with medals on an international stage. On behalf of everyone at British Para-Swimming I wish him luck for his next steps.”