FOUR swimming pools in County Durham are taking part in a pilot project aimed to keep kids entertained during the summer holidays.

The water-based activities will see a giant inflatable obstacle course brought to the pools, which are aimed at eight to 14-year-olds.

For younger swimmers, new aquafun sessions will feature floats and water toys including floaters, sinkers and balls which entertain and help develop aquatics skills.

Adult and child sessions, which include meeting Brock the badger, have also been planned.

The four pools involved are Chester-le-Street, Newton Aycliffe and Peterlee Leisure Centres and Woodhouse Close Leisure Complex, Bishop Auckland.

The project was made possible by funding from Durham County Council, together with lottery cash via Sport England.

Ossie Johnson, the county council cabinet member for tourism, culture, leisure and rural issues, said: “Swimming is already the largest participation sport in the county with many of our residents swimming at least once month, and we are delighted that we now have the funding thanks to National Lottery players to help this number grow.

“We hope the pilot will re-invigorate swimming as an activity and encourage residents to embrace water-based activities.”