FREE swimming classes are being offered to youngsters this week in support of Drowning Prevention Week.

Everyone Active, in partnership with Cotswold District Council, will be holding the classes from Monday 20 to Friday 24 in their Cirencester, Bourton and Chipping Campden leisure centres.

The Royal Life Saving Society Drowning Prevention Week aims to teach people how to stay safe near water.

One person drowns every 20 hours in the UK and hundreds more suffer life changing injuries through near drowning.

Everyone Active area contract manager Jamie Nesbit said: “We are delighted to be supporting Drowning Prevention Week and to be offering children currently being taught in our school free swimming lessons during our Swim for Everyone sessions.

"Swimming is a vital skill and this is a fantastic opportunity for youngsters to build their confidence in the water and practise their skills with family and friends.”