LOCAL schoolchildren will be the first in the north of England to benefit from a scheme to get the nation's children to take the plunge.
Wigan borough has been chosen to pilot a project which aims to build strong links between clubs and schools. And over the next two weeks, nearly 200 junior pupils will take part in a series of swimming 'festivals' in Hindley and Atherton.
Primary schools taking part include Castle Hill St Philips, Hindley Green County Primary, Atherton Sacred Heart and St Michael's at Howe Bridge.
They will be linking up with are Wigan, Ashton Central, Hindley, Atherton, Howe Bridge Aces and Tyldesley swimming clubs.
Tyldesley recently achieved the Swim 21 clubmark for being a 'safe, effective and child friendly club', and the other five are actively pursuing accreditation.
Wigan Leisure & Culture Trust's Aquatic Development Officer, Jane Bent said: "Swimming is lots of fun and tremendous exercise, and because our swimming clubs are more advanced than most with regards to Swim 21, local youngsters have a great opportunity to get back in the water."
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