A FORMER international swimmer has launched a new creative swimming programme.

Swimstylers is the brainchild of Angela Wilson, who competed in the 1992 Commonwealth Games.

The programme is being launched in Basildon and Rayleigh to get children engaged with the sport from a young age.

The classes, run by franchisee James Moult, are on offer at Basildon Lower Academy and at Sweyne Park School.

Created in conjunction with CHF Media, the programme is designed for children from four months to 12 years of age, with five animated characters used to structure the sessions in a fun and engaging way.

Angela said: “The hope is that children aspire to be like the characters and improve with style, confidence and technique as they progress through the character badge-based system.

“Each character has been created to inspire and motivate the young swimmers, and bring to life my own unique method of teaching, which has been tried and tested through two generations of my family.”

Angela began developing the Swimstylers concept 12 months ago, motivated by a 2017 Swim England survey which revealed one in three children cannot swim when leaving primary school, while only 36 per cent of schools currently provide effective lessons that reach national curriculum standards.

As well as the correct swimming technique, Swimstylers pupils will be taught water safety and respect.

Angela said: “Swimming for me is not only a life-saving skill but a life enhancing one. “Everyone can benefit from being able to swim properly and it’s hugely concerning to hear that so many of our children don’t have this essential life skill.

“Swimstylers is about making swimming engaging and a priority for us all. We’re completely delighted with the response to the characters we have created and have high hopes that it will make a big difference.”

For information about the classes call 07496 167429 or visit angelasswimschool.co.uk