A disability swimming development day will take place at Teviotdale Leisure Centre in the spring.

The Borders is unique in Scotland for having a swimming programme that can take young swimmers on a pathway through from learning to competing as part of the regional disability swim squad - the Border Barracudas.

The development day on May 7 is open to all young people with a disability, aged from four up to 16.

As well as providing an introduction to the variety of swimming opportunities available there will be a chance to participate in a range of pool sessions led by qualified and experienced teachers and coaches.

Borders Sport and Leisure is organising the event.

Alan Oliver, BSL's Disability Development Officer, told the Border Telegraph: "We have developed a comprehensive pathway to promote opportunities for swimmers with a disability across the Borders.

"Our programme is unique, meaningful and appropriate to the aspirations of the swimmers.

"Whether they want to learn to swim or have ambitions compete, they can access the pathway at any stage.

"This day is perfect for families looking to find out more about disability swimming opportunities in the Borders."

The day is being held in association with Scottish Swimming and Scottish Disability Sport.

Two sessions will take place -10am to11am for those with a physical or sensory impairment and 11am to12 noon for those with learning disabilities.

Swimmers can enter the programme at any stage and choose to stay at any level - from swimming for enjoyment to joining the Barracudas squad.

It is open to all disabilities and allows each swimmer to progress at their own pace regardless of their impairment by focusing on stroke adaptations relevant to their particular needs.

Ewan Jackson, Chief Executive of Borders Sport and Leisure added: "We are constantly looking to encourage people all ages and abilities to enjoy swimming.

"This swimming development day is about enabling young swimmers with a disability to increase their confidence levels in a pool environment. The coaches will be looking to work with them to adapt/develop stroke techniques with the overall aim of enabling them to participate regularly in disability group or mainstream swimming sessions."

For more information or to book a place on one of the sessions contact Alan Oliver on aoliver@bslt.org.uk or 01896 661 166.