In photo: From L to R: Nora Hope with daughter - Leah Hope (7 months), Konnie George with daughter - Alex George (18 months)

Torquay’s Riviera International Centre is to play its part in helping to cut down the number of life-threatening swimming related incidents.

After a summer when lifeguards and coastguards have been kept busy on South Devon’s beaches – many of which do not have permanent lifeguards - the Centre is joining the growing campaign to improve safety.  As part of the campaign, the Centre is again offering swimming courses which will follow the Amateur Swimming Association’s National Plan for Teaching Swimming.

The courses can commence any time up until half term and will run for up to 14 weeks following a national syllabus which encompasses core skills for all aquatic disciplines, encouraging swimmers to master the basics before moving on to more specific areas such as diving and lifesaving.  The courses will be run on a one to one basis or in groups and are suitable for children from the age of four months upwards.

Jacquie Lovett said: “There have been several reported cases this summer of swimmers caught in rip currents while swimming in the sea and getting into trouble - we want to play our part and help to prevent such incidents. There are certain measures that can be undertaken to reduce the danger the sea poses, and one of these is teaching children to swim from a young age.  Like riding a bike swimming is a skill for life, but unlike cycling it could one day save your life.”  

Konnie George, who has attended some of the adult and baby classes, after feeling it was about time she learnt to swim herself added: “This is now my fourth term of swimming classes with my daughter Alex and she is now a lot more confident and relaxed in the water. I've also been taking the adult swimming lessons so my daughter and I can now enjoy learning and playing together in the water. I’m a lot more confident than I was and we’re loving being able to splash about together.”

Children will need to complete a number of elements at each stage and providing they pass all of them, will be presented with a badge and a certificate at the end of the term.

Swimming lessons for adults are also available at the Centre. For further details on all the lessons call 01803 299 992.