NEW national guidelines governing admission of children to swimming pools are being introduced at leisure centres operated by Hambleton District Council.

The safety improvements for children during public swimming sessions come into force from July 1.

They relate to children under the age of seven.

The new rules insist that children under the age of four should be accompanied by an adult over 16 on a one-to-one basis.

Children aged between four and seven should be accompanied by an adult over 16 on a maximum two-to-one basis.

The changes only apply to public swimming.

Lessons and parent and tot instructor-led sessions are not affected by the Government's new rulings.