Rebecca Adlington - competing in one of her weaker events - finished third to secure a bronze and England’s first medal of the Games.

Carlin said afterwards: "It’s been so long since a Welsh woman won a medal.

"I’m really choked up."

Carlin was no match for Palmer, who also picked up her country’s first medal, and set Australia on course to retain top spot in the pool.

The 20-year-old Australian struck out after the second turn and touched home in 1min 57.50sec, with Carlin finishing in 1:58.29 and Adlington in 1:58.49.

Palmer said: "I am speechless.

"I really have nothing to say.

"You can’t get better than winning a gold medal.

"It’s definitely one of the highlights of my career."

It was the first time Adlington, the Beijing 2008 double 400m and 800m Olympic champion, had competed in the 200m at international level.

She is experimenting with her schedule ahead of the London 2012 Olympics.

Adlington (pictured) said: "I thought I’d maybe get around fourth of fifth, so I’m very happy I got third place.

"It’s definitely going to be a tough week.

"Now is the time to try it [going for so many events] and see how you cope with it.

"I just wanted to give it a go.

"My favourite event has always been the 800m freestyle, as I am more comfortable and
confident in that and I know what I am doing."

David Carry grabbed Scotland’s first medal of the Games after he picked up bronze in the 400m freestyle.

The defending Commonwealth champion finished behind Canada’s first medallist in Delhi, Ryan Cochrane and Australia’s Ryan Napoleon, respectively and was just ahead of Wales’ Opening Ceremony flag bearer David Davies.

"I’m delighted to get on the podium," said Carry.

Australia dominated the swimming in Melbourne four years ago - when they won 53 medals - and will be looking to do so again.

Contact the writer of this story [email protected]