GET INTO THE SWIM OF THINGS AT DOVERCOURT POOL

A new swimming class is being launched at Dovercourt Pool on a ten-week trial basis.

The Royal Lifesaving Society Rookie Class is targeted at those children aged 8 to 12 years old who are interested in lifeguarding and lifesaving.

If successful and popular the sessions could be repeated in the future.

Youngsters will get the chance to learn special skills which will help them save themselves - should they get into difficulty - and will also help them to save others.

They will also be taught procedures of what to do if someone stops breathing.

The pool is also running a special offer for January where the first 25 new full paying customers for junior swimming lessons signing up from December 14 for the January 2010 block of 10 x 30 minute lessons will get a free goody bag.

The bag will contain essential items needed for swimming and is worth £10.

Stephen Mayzes, Cabinet Member for Leisure at Tendring District Council which runs the pool site, said the class was a valuable addition to activities.

"With the largest coastline of any district in the country it is vital that children learn how to swim as early as possible," he said.

"These sessions will take that a step further and teach them how they can help themselves and others who may get into trouble in the water."

The RLSS Rookie classes start on Saturday January 2 from 9am to 10am and will cost £44.50 for the ten one hour lessons. Places are limited so it is advised to book now to avoid disappointment.

More information about the classes can be found at www.lifesavers.org.uk/rookie/

Youth Aqua Aerobics is also being re-launched from January 6 for youngsters aged 11 to 16. The class will be staged on Wednesdays from 3.50pm to 4.30pm, priced £2 payable on the day.