Devonport: One of the UK's poorest

Adrian Gurney, Neighbourhood Team Sergeant for Devonport, has teamed up with local diving school Aquanauts to run the sessions.

Cash for the courses has come from the Devonport Regeneration Company.

The sessions, which started on Monday, have been running during the evenings when problems with anti-social behaviour are said to be worse.

We knew it would be difficult, but we have had a very positive response Aquanauts director Brian Allen

Devonport was named as among the UK's poorest estates in a report by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation last year.

Aquanauts director Brian Allen said: "They came in very full of themselves, but now they all really want to do it.

"We knew it would be difficult, but we have had a very positive response."

Sergeant Gurney said: "Breaking down the barriers between the police and local youngsters is an obvious benefit when we work together.

"These courses will also encourage teamwork, respect for other people and equipment."

Six courses for 10 students' aged 10 years and upwards are being held at the Aquanauts' dive centre in Vauxhall Street on the Barbican and at a private pool.