I slipped while I was swimming and couldn't pick myself up again

Charlotte Williams

Eleven-year-old Charlotte was left terrified of water after getting into difficulty in a pool.

However, instructors at Denbigh Leisure Centre, who have helped her overcome the fears, have praised the schoolgirl's perseverance.

Centre assistant manager Alan Hopper said: "Charlotte has experienced one of the most fearful experiences a young child, even an adult could experience.

"She faced her fear and is now enjoying swimming to the full."

Mr Hopper added: "In my 23 years of experience I have never seen such determination in a child."

Charlotte, who attends Ysgol Frongoch primary school, has been battling against her anxiety for more than four years and has been having lessons since 2000.

Charlotte has been scared of water for years

She said the memories of the incident had put her off getting into the water.

"I slipped while I was swimming and couldn't pick myself up again. Luckily there was a friend there to help me," she said.

"I was really afraid of the water after that but after having lessons, I've just got better and better, and my confidence has grown."

Charlotte and her mother have taken the opportunity to congratulate staff at the swimming pool on her success.

Her mother Linda Williams said: "I am overjoyed with the progress she has made during these intensive sessions.

"Charlotte has finally regained her confidence in the pool and I cannot thank the staff enough for that."

Charlotte's swimming instructors at the leisure centre have said they are amazed by how well she has done.

Fearful experience

Her coach Rhodri Morgan said: "During these lessons it was identified that Charlotte had major problems in overcoming the fear of jumping into the water.

"We have worked to build Charlotte's confidence and visualise herself doing and succeeding in the activity."

The youngster has achieved her level five swimming award and is now working towards the next grade.