Tom had swimming lessons at Lawson Pool a few weeks ago. He has improved significantly under the aegis of Department of Education instructors - mostly elderly though very competent no-nonsense women. The once-a-day coaching over two weeks helps to ground the children in fundamental water and swimming skills, something entirely lacking when I was a kid.

So here is Tom about to commence one of his lessons on a day I thought it wise to turn up, if only to fly the flag.