Olympic 200m breaststroke swimmer James Kirton officially launched the new Dolphin Award Swimming Lessons at the Barnsley Metrodome Leisure Centre this month.

He said he is keen to encourage young swimmers to take up the sport, and prove how the lessons changed his life and helped him achieve his dream of reaching the Olympic Games. "People of all ages should be encouraged to learn to swim, but it is especially important for young children," he said.

"Swimming lessons help children develop confidence and have fun at the same time. I'm sure there are some budding Olympic swimmers in Barnsley and I'm keen to do everything I can to support them." Children can start to learn to swim from three years old, working up to their Dolphin Awards and then the Dolphin Distance Awards, including 25m, 50m and one mile. They can then progress to competitive swimming and life saving courses.

David Redfern, leisure operations manager for Barnsley Premier Leisure, said: "We have changed the way swimming lessons are taught. "It is much more focused on the individual and helping them to progress at their own pace.

"Some children learn to swim quicker than others and the Dolphin Awards Scheme is all about making swimming fun and at the same time teaching children the vital skills to keep them safe in the water. "We have also brought out new badges and certificates to recognise the children's achievements."

At the event, James met the Clarke family and presented them with a block of children's swimming lessons, which they had won through a competition organised by Barnsley Premier Leisure. Photograph shows left to right Lisa Clarke (mum) holding Hannah Clarke with Aynsley Heseltine (young swimming professional), James Kirton and Hannah's granddad Leslie Ducker