A NORTHWICH-based baby and child swim school says that it is ‘absolutely delighted’ to have raised over £300,000 for charity over the last six years.

The first Puddle Ducks class was held in Northwich in 2002, and the company has since branched out to run franchises across the country.

One of its charity incentives is its annual PJ Week, which sees little swimmers and parents turned up to classes in pyjamas to learn vital new skills and raise money for their chosen local charities.

Over 21,000 swimmers took part in this year’s fundraiser, with classes in mid Cheshire raising over £1,000 for Altrincham charity, The Children’s Adventure Farm Trust (CAFT).

“We founded our very first Puddle Ducks class here in Northwich and are absolutely delighted that through our UK network of schools, we have raised so much for local causes close to the hearts of our families,” said Puddle Ducks managing director Jo Stone.

“Raising a total of £302,680 from PJ Week over the past six years is just amazing.

“Wearing pyjamas during swimming lessons is about more than having fun, as most accidents happen when children are fully clothed.

“The classes help them to realise that they will feel heavier, but they will still be able to do the important life-saving manoeuvres like kicking to the surface and reaching for the side.”

Puddle Ducks provides local swimming classes for children up to 10 years old and has recently been given the green light to open a state-of-the-art swimming centre in the heart of Baron’s Quay.

For more information about Puddle Ducks baby and children swimming classes, contact 01477 410083 or visit puddleducks.com.