Harriet Holland aged three from Darlington, has been selected as a Little Hero by Water Babies, the UK’s leading baby and toddler swimming school. The local branch of Water Babies, based in Aycliffe, was delighted to hear that one of its young pupils had been awarded this accolade, after coming through a number of physical challenges from a very early age. A few months ago Harriet came to the end of two, very long years of intensive, medical treatment to remove a birthmark, for very serious health reasons. Throughout this physical and mental ordeal Harriet always remained cheerful and bravely underwent numerous operations without a single complaint. After recovering from each procedure she always looked forward to heading back to her swimming classes with her mum Joanne. Joanne was delighted Harriet has been nominated a Little Hero adding:” After 10 general anaesthetics in 2 years our beautiful daughter has finally reached the end of her treatment, which used to break my heart every time I had to leave her in the surgeon’s room. “Harriet has to have 6 monthly eye examinations at James Cook Hospital for the rest of her life. Harriet was still able to join all her friends and her Water Babies teacher Danielle for some fun in the pool and a chance to unwind. Our family is so proud she has received this award”. Danielle said:” I always look forward to seeing Harriet – she’s a gorgeous little girl and despite all her treatment she’s become a really confident swimmer.  She is always smiling and is such a pleasure to teach.” A recent survey showed that 92 % of former Water Babies aged seven to eleven could easily swim twentyfive metres unaided. The national picture is far bleaker with only 45% of their counterparts being able to swim the same distance on their own. Paul Thompson, Chairman of Water Babies commented, “When you look back at Harriet’s difficult journey in the early part of her life, you realise just how well she has managed to overcome major obstacles. That’s why we decided Harriet is a very worthy winner of this Little Heroes award. “Everyone at Water Babies has been really impressed by our Little Heroes and just how many courageous little splashers there are out there. Their stories show how important it is, to get your baby to the pool as early as possible and so introduce them to all the health and psychological benefits that swimming classes offer. It’s also a fun activity for all the family! At the same time, you are giving a very important gift to your child – a potentially life-saving skill. In fact, over the last few years, a dozen of our pupils have actually saved themselves from drowning, some aged just two years old!” Water Babies classes are offered throughout the UK. Go to www. waterbabies.co.uk  to find your nearest class plus all the latest baby swimming news; alternatively go to www.facebook.com/ waterbabiesuk and www. twitter.com/waterbabies.