POPULAR swimming classes for mothers and their new-born babies will be starting up in Ledsham at the end of the month.

Water Babies Ltd, which already runs sessions in Little Sutton and Ellesmere Port, is introducing classes at Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel from March 31.

The half-hour classes help parents to bond and have fun with their babies while also providing a complete physical work-out.

Studies have shown that babies taking part have improved sleeping and eating patterns as a result of the sessions.

Alison Ogden, who runs the Water Babies classes with business partner Tracey Allison, said: “We are delighted to have found another excellent pool and to be able to offer more parents and their babies the opportunity to swim with us.

“It’s never too early to start exercising. The first year of a baby’s life is crucial in terms of their development and regular exercise plays a vital role.

“When you consider that every movement they make has a direct effect on strengthening their brain for new learning, you can see how swimming without constraints of gravity is so effective.

“It’s also very special in that it’s the only structured activity you can do with your newborn literally from birth.”

Being in the water is a calming experience for babies and familiar to them given the length of time they spent in the womb.

Their natural confidence means they’re soon floating on the surface and even swimming short distances underwater.

Alison added: “Many parents say that doing something so unique that both they and their baby loved was very special.”

For more information about the classes contact Alison or Tracey on 0161 357 0111 or visit www.waterbabies.co.uk.