CHILDREN across Basildon will take to the water like sharks under a new scheme.

The council has started using a new tool called SwimFin at the district’s pools in Pitsea, Gloucester Park and Wickford in a bid to boost standards of swimming by 2012.

The device, featured on BBC 2 programme Dragon’s Den, attaches to the child’s back like a shark or dolphin fin, and helps them stay afloat in the water.

Kevin Blake, Basildon councillor responsible for leisure and arts, said the device was exciting and should make learning to swim easier for all children.

He added: “We will continue to look at ways to improve what we already offer and seek to find new ways to make swiming easier and more enjoyable for all.”