CHILDREN at Dursley swimming pool got the chance to design their ideal swimming teacher over the festive season.

Young swimmers entered the competition to win free family swim sessions.

Councillor Chris Brine, Chair of Stroud District Council's Community Services Committee, said: "We were delighted with the huge number of entries we had and will be putting them on display in the pool area in the New Year, after the Christmas break."

Dursley Pool has 1,300 swimmers signed up to its weekly learn to swim programme.

Angela Gillingham, general manager, said: "Our swim programme has grown from strength to strength.

“Under the instruction of our fully qualified teachers it's been great to see children make real progress with their swimming.

“Learning to swim from a young age is an important life skill which children will never lose.

“Regular swimming as both an adult and child will help the fight of obesity, diabetes, stroke and heart conditions in later life."