Do you want to take on a new challenge?

Water polo is a fast-paced and exhilarating team sport with many health benefits - and free taster sessions are on offer at Bridport Leisure Centre.

The leisure centre is a strictly non-profit making organisation aiming to enhance the quality of life of the community by offering a range of recreational facilities and activities - and water polo is just one of them.

Beth Donovan, who has been teaching water polo at the centre for four years, said: “I love water polo - the kids are so enthusiastic. They learn new skills every week and it’s a good social group too.”

Beth says she has seen timid children flourish through water polo. “The children get so much from it," she said. "Fun, fitness, improved co-ordination, and they learn problem-solving and team building too. It’s amazing to see their confidence grow whilst their swimming ability improves."

Harris O’Rourke, 15, has been attending water polo for a year. He enjoys helping others who are new to the sport. He said: “I enjoy it. It’s a sport I learnt quite quickly and I’ve lost a significant amount of weight since I started too. You don’t realise how hard you are working as the water cools you down and gives you energy."

Many of the children taught at the centre fall in love with the sport and some have worked their way through the ranks, going on to play in Dorset leagues.

Sessions are available for both children and adults. A sessions for children aged six and over takes place every Thursday from 4pm until 5pm. Each Monday, those aged between 11 and 16 play from 7.30pm to 8.30pm and Bridport Barracudas hold an adult class from 8.30pm.

Free taster sessions are available and the only requirement is that you must be able to swim more than 25m.

For more information or to book, call 01308 427464 or visit www.bridportleisure.com/activities/water-polo