A SWIMMING and water safety programme for youngsters made a splash at Dovercourt Beach.

Swim Safe, an initiative created by Swim England and RNLI, held a session on swimming in the sea on Tuesday afternoon.

The free sessions, which are being held at Dovercourt Beach this month, amongst other beaches around the country, teach seven to 14 year olds how to swim outdoors and what to do if they get into trouble in the sea.

Dozens of children took part in Tuesday’s session.

Charlotte Francis, Swim Safe area coordinator, said: "The session was held over three hours and there were 60 children throughout the afternoon.

"They learnt about how to be safe in the open water and they were taught where safe places to swim were in the area.

"The session was a really big community effort and lifeguards, firefighters and the Harwich mayor came to support the youngsters.

"The children all came out of the water buzzing and they were all excited to be part of the session.

"We hope to run it in Dovercourt again next year."

Children who can swim at least 25 meters can take part and wetsuits and swimming hats will be provided for the sessions.

Places are free to book at swimsafe.org.uk and children only need to bring their swim suit and a towel.