A popular swimming teacher has been honoured with a prestigious award.

Puddle Ducks's Jo Simpson was awarded their Local Star Teacher award for her dedication and enthusiasm teaching baby and preschool children to swim across the Worcestershire.

The award recognises individuals who excel in teaching young swimmers and achieve great recognition from parents and children.

Ms Simpson started at Puddle Ducks in 2020 and her warm, welcoming nature made her popular among both kids and parents.

She said: "I truly love my job and the best part for me is when I look round my classes and I am greeted by big smiles from little ones and their parents.

"We are teaching one of the most important life skills and having fun along the way, so I’m over the moon to have won this award.”

Her nomination for the award was made by Clare A, whose son, Danny, has been learning to swim under Ms Simpson’s guidance at Malvern College.

Clare said: "Jo has a friendly and confident teaching style that puts mum and baby at ease straight away.

"My son Danny went through a tricky few weeks where he wasn't enjoying his lessons. Jo could see I was getting worked up as well and took Danny for demos and gave him toys to distract him.

"Jo really knows my son and the progress and water confidence she has built in him is wonderful."

Lucy from LR Communications selected Ms Simpson as the winner.

She said: “I have a huge lump in my throat from reading all for the nominations, but I chose Jo due to her perseverance that allowed Danny to eventually enjoy his swimming.”

Before joining Puddle Ducks, Ms Simpson started her swimming career at the age of 18 when she took part competitively at a country level.

This passion evolved into teaching school-age children to swim and providing rookie lifeguard training to year 11’s.

She teaches at the Mercure Hotel in West Bromwich, Malvern College, and Stratford Manor.

To find out more about Puddle Ducks Worcestershire and the baby and child swimming lessons they provide, call 01905 888 346 or visit https://tinyurl.com/2nsbmdd2.