AN East Lancashire pool is offering crash courses in swimming for children this summer.

The five-day Monday to Friday programmes are specifically for children aged four to 11 and cost just £27.50.

They will take place between 7 and 11am at Ribblesdale Pool in Edisford Road Clitheroe.

The courses have been arranged as a prelude to the launch of a full programme of swimming lessons for all ages and abilities from September.

Ricky Newmark, chairman of Ribble Valley Council’s community services committee, said: “Swimming lessons are making a welcome return to Ribblesdale Pool this summer following the pandemic.

“While school children have been able to attend swimming lessons, other than during lockdown, the provision of a learn-to-swim programme has not been possible due to a shortage of swimming teachers.

“I am delighted that we now have the resources in place to resume the lessons in September and are getting the ball rolling with these crash summer swimming courses for youngsters.”

Ribblesdale Pool hosts nearly 50 swimming sessions a week, including lane, public, social, mobility and women-only swims, and aqua fitness classes, and is available for children’s parties.

It also hosts special swimming sessions aimed at marginalised groups including people with disabilities and their carers, parents and toddlers, adult beginner swimmers and anyone who is currently inactive.

The pool is owned by Ribble Valley Council and in 2017 underwent a £250,000 refurbishment featuring new changing rooms for the disabled and families, a brighter environment and more friendly waiting and refreshment areas.