EXCITED children enjoyed swimming in their pyjamas to raise money for young carers.

Baby and child swim school Puddle Ducks hosts a charity PJ Week every year, where little ones and their parents leave their swimming trunks and costumes at home for a change.

Youngsters smashed their target with the swimming sessions at Alexandra House in Wroughton and raised £802 for Be Free Young Carers.

Puddle Ducks Oxfordshire owner Beccy Stenson said: “We have fundraised through sponsorship money, donations and a very popular raffle which had amazing prizes donated from generous businesses.

“We strongly believe it's our duty to ensure that our swimmers know what it feels like to be in water while wearing clothes.

"Even just this short experience will help them to realise that even though they feel heavier, they can still do those all-important reactions of kicking to the surface, turning and reaching for the side. We do all of this while still having lots of fun.”

Be Free Young Carers provides young carers with advice and guidance on caring issues, offering access to mentoring and peer support, enabling them to meet, socialise and have fun while increasing their self-confidence.

Support worker Carly Buckingham said: “The money Puddle Ducks raised will make such a difference helping us to continue our vital work supporting these wonderful, incredible young carers. The children Puddle Ducks supported do such a fantastic job looking after their poorly or disabled family members."

“They never ask for anything in return, even though they deserve so much. Their lives can be very much impacted and they often miss out on things that their peers may take for granted. This support means that we can give them more emotional support to help cope with their responsibilities and also give them opportunities to get out and have some much needed fun. Thank you.”

Puddle Ducks provides swimming classes for children from birth to 10 years old. Teachers focus on creating a nurturing environment, which supports independent swimming for children of all abilities.