Britain will send just five swimmers to the European Championships in Debrecen, Hungary, in May, with the vast majority of the London 2012 Olympic team, including double Olympic champion Rebecca Adlington, opting out in favour of training through in readiness for the big home event in July. 

Commonwealth champion James Goddard will be joined by Robbie Renwick, Michael Jamieson, Craig Gibbons and Sophie Allen in Hungary from May 21-27. 

Dennis Pursley, British Swimming Head Coach said: “Participation in the European Championships was made optional for the British Olympians. The swimmers were encouraged to base their decisions on whether participation would enhance or compromise their preparation for the Olympics. 

"The five who accepted the invitation will not be tapered for peak performance but will benefit from the opportunity to sharpen their racing skills.”

Britain is in line to host the 2016 European Championships in London when the next Olympic year comes round and the world heads down to Rio.