Swimmers are being urged to take the plunge and sign up to learn lifesaving skills with a nationally recognised training course.

Dudley Council is offering the course at Halesowen Leisure Centre and Crystal Leisure Centre, Stourbridge. The Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS) is running the lifeguard courses which can pave the way for a new career or just equip people with essential skills.

At Halesowen Leisure Centre, the course will run from Monday 19 to Friday 23 February, 9am - 5.30pm, with an exam taking place on the Friday.

At Crystal Leisure Centre, the course will take place on Tuesday 20 to Friday 23 February 12.30pm - 9.30pm and Saturday 24 February, 7.30am to 5pm, with an exam taking place on the Saturday.

People will receive a course manual and special tuition. Those who complete the course successfully will get an official lifeguard qualification and certificate.

The courses are open for people 16 and over who will be expected to take a pre-arranged swimming test. They cost £245 and spaces must be pre-booked with a deposit required to secure a place. The remaining balance is to be paid before the course starts.

For more information go to www.dudley.gov.uk/sport or to provisionally book a place call the leisure centres on 01384 812800 or email sport@dudley.gov.uk