The news comes as a huge blow to Britain's team as both Roberts and Watts were strong favourites to claim medals in Iceland.

Roberts, who has won an astonishing 16 Paralympic medals over three Paralympic Games – 11 of which were gold - has fractured his elbow and bruised his ribs and right shoulder due to a fall meaning the Welsh swimmer will be unable to compete in Reykjavik. 
 
Watts, herself a three time Paralympic medallist, has a rotator cuff injury which has led to her withdrawing from the team."

Fortunately, neither injury is considered to be too serious although Performance Director Tim Reddish is disheartened at having lost two important members of his team so close to the Championships which get underway on Wednesday in the Icelandic capital.
 
Reddish said: "It is very unfortunate and disappointing that both of these athletes obtained these injuries this close to competition. 
 
"The whole team of athletes, coaches and support staff wish them both well and hope to see them back in water as soon as possible."

Roberts, 29, has his sights firmly on the London 2012 Paralympics, where he is tipped to overtake fellow Welsh athlete Tanni Grey-Thompson.

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