PUDDLE Ducks showed off their swimming skills when they took to the pool in their PJs.

The toddlers at their aqua classes at Lodge Hill were helping promote water safety.

“They absolutely loved it,” said Natalie Kaper, administrator of the classes, which are run by Jane Bozic at Lodge Hill pool at Canford Heath, Poole.

“They wore their pyjamas over their swimming costumes so they know what it is like to be in the water with clothes on,” said Natalie.

As well as being taught water safety the water babies also learn what to do if they see another child in difficulty in the water.

“Drowning is the third highest cause of accidental death in children,” said Natalie. “That’s why there is this big campaign to make people aware and prevent drowning.”

The Royal Life Saving Society in conjunction with the Amateur Swimming Association is promoting water safety during national Drowning Prevention Week, which runs from June 21 to 29.

Accidental drowning causes more than 400 UK deaths every year. Puddle Ducks classes are run in Poole, Bournemouth, Dorset and beyond. The youngest duckling was only two weeks old.

“The grandmother has enrolled the baby before it was born,” said Natalie.

“The dad went into the pool with the baby when it was two weeks old.”

They take babies, toddlers and the oldest child is about eight, and also run aqua water classes for expectant mums.

For more information about Puddle Ducks call 01202 674676.