THERE is something fishy going on in Prestwich.

Swimming instructor, Emma Curry has set up a mermaid and shark academy to get children off dry land.

Children can don a mermaid tail or shark fin and take to the water says Miss Glossop who wants more children to learn the important life skill.

Miss Curry, said: "I think it brings that interest back into swimming. I don’t think there’s enough kids that can swim.

"It's to get children in the pool and swimming, whether they are swimmers or non-swimmers."

Classes are being held at Ivy Bank Swim School in Grosvenor Street, Prestwich where Miss Curry has been teaching mermaid and shark skills to a whole host of youngsters.

Miss Curry, said: "The kids love it and the response from everyone has been great.

"One of the kids who came along couldn’t swim when she started six weeks ago.

"But from having the tail on she can now swim 10m in just six weeks. It helps that every girl wants to be a mermaid."

Those looking to be a mermaid for the day can try out a brightly coloured fishy tail, while aspiring sharks get a black tail and dorsal fin.

Those who attend the classes can get six weeks of training to complete a skills badge and work up from there, completing bronze, silver and gold awards.

To achieve each badge a child must learn and successfully master five skills like fully submerging in the water, doing a handstand and learning to do tumble turns in the water, both forwards and backwards.

Classes are made up of no more than five swimmers and the academy is aimed at those aged four and up.

For a block of six classes the cost is £50 and it is £12 for a one off taster lesson.

For those interested in booking with Miss Curry, call 07976606327.