This summer, as temperatures soared, families across the country headed for rivers, lakes and the coast.

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But too many days ended in tragedy. More than 30 people lost their lives in open water-related incidents and drownings during the hot weather. Each of them had a family, friends and a future.

And this summer may not be a one-off. With forecasters warning that El Niño could push global temperatures even higher next year, hot spells like this one may become more frequent and more people will head to open water to cool off.

This is a stark reminder that swimming is a life skill, not just a hobby. Yet it's a skill far too many people are missing out on.

Figures released in August showed that 28% of Year 6 pupils can't swim 25 metres. At schools with a higher proportion of disadvantaged children, that rises to 45%.

Being able to swim shouldn't depend on your age, gender, ethnicity, background or where you live, which is why we need to reach everyone.

New Swim England........

© LBC