WIRRAL parents are being encouraged to take part in National Baby Swimming Week from Monday October 31.

Water Babies North West are backing the initiative which urges parents to take their baby swimming to teach them life-saving skills, help them bond and build their physical strength.

This international week is celebrated in countries such as China, New Zealand, Canada and The Netherlands, teaching more than 48,000 babies worldwide.

A recent survey has shown that 93% of children under the age of five who attend swimming lessons are physically active for at least three hours per day.

Celebrities like Coleen Rooney, Kristina Rhianoff and Sam Faiers all support the week and are encouraging more parents to do the same.

A spokesman from Water Babies said: "Over the years we have seen countless babies and parents reap huge benefits from taking swimming classes with our highly qualified teachers.

"Sadly, far too many young children are missing out on all the positive benefits that come from swimming simply because they never learned this potentially life-saving skill.

"Please ensure your child gets signed up for swimming lessons – the earlier the better."

For more information visit www.nationalbabyswimmingweek.org.uk