LIFE-saving sessions have been held at a community swimming club.

Staff at Great Harwood Otters joined forces with the Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS) to hold an educational event at Mercer Hall Leisure Centre on Queen Street.

It included an interactive water safety session for the swimmers and parents.

Held in support of Drowning Prevention Week, swimmers were taught what to do in a crisis.

Jane Davies from the club said: “More than 400 people drown in the UK each year, and thousands suffer life changing injuries due to near-drowning experiences.

“Shockingly, drowning is the third highest cause of accidental death in children in the UK.

“We were happy to support the RLSS to reduce these numbers by informing our swimmers about how to stay safe near water.

“It was a great turn-out with over 50 swimmers taking part.

“I would like to thank all those involved, giving up their spare time to help on the night for such a worthwhile cause.”

Various activities took place during the session, including learning the SAFE code, identifying beach flags and signs and practicing shouting for help.

There was a fun element to the evening with goodie bags, including frisbees and fridge magnets for all those swimmers who attended, provided by the RLSS.