NEW award-winning baby swimming classes will be coming to Burton Bradstock.

Turtle Tots West Dorset has been launched by Dorset mum Kate Hopps to offer families a unique swimming programme.

It begins with ‘Turtle Tums’, an aqua-natal yoga class for pregnant mums, and continues with Turtle Tots specialist baby and toddler swimming lesson programme for children aged up to three and a half.

The programme focusses on teaching babies and young children how to swim and be water confident. It also promotes pre-natal and post-natal fitness.

Turtle Tots is a specialised programme delivered by mums across the UK, Ireland and Australia.

Kate, who is a qualified specialist baby and pre-school swimming teacher, said: “As a parent, I know how important it is to teach your child how to swim and to be water confident, and I can’t wait to start sharing my experience, and my passion with new little turtles all around Dorset and helping them on the start of their swimming journey.

“I wish these classes had been available here in west Dorset when my girls were younger because it is such a fun teaching programme that has been specifically created to help little ones gain vital life skills in a friendly, warm environment.

“What’s more, one per cent of the swim school’s turnover will be given to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. This is a charity that provides a vital life-saving service in our area.

“This resonates with our own business of saving lives through the teaching of swimming and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to be able to support such an important local charity.”

Turtle Tots will be held at Freshwater Beach Holiday Park, with plans also in place to host Turtle Tums at Summer Lodge Hotel and Spa in Evershot.

Dan Allen, managing director at Turtle Tots, said: “With Kate at the helm, it’s fantastic to see Turtle Tots classes start in west Dorset – our swim classes really give mums and dads the opportunity to bond and share a wonderful experience with their little ones.

“There are many benefits. Swimming is proven to help babies develop physically, emotionally, emotionally, intellectually and socially. It also encourages healthy growth and helps with the development of strength, co-ordination and balance, all while equipping them with key safety and safe hold skills in the water.”

For more information, call Kate on 07449 432432, email westdorset@turtletots.com or visit www.turtletots.com