PRINCESSES and pirates invaded a primary school pool as they learnt lifesaving skills in the name of charity.

Children aged four and under took part in lessons run by the charity Tommy's alongside Water Babies swim school at Witney Community Primary School on Tuesday.

The charity funds research centres in the UK that investigate causes and find treatments for miscarriage, stillbirth and premature birth.

Youngsters aged between six weeks and four years were asked to dress up in pirate and princess costumes, with the aim to swim across the pool in fancy dress or normal clothing.

The aim was to promote water safety, as if a child falls into the water they will normally do so fully-clothed.

Swimmers raised money while they were at it, with children sponsored to swim a width.

Tuesday's event followed lessons in Oxford the week before, which raised more than £13,500.

The amount raised in Witney is not yet confirmed.

Jane Brewin, chief executive of Tommy’s, said: “Splashathon is a great way for mums and dads to involve their little ones in a good cause.

"Tommy’s relies on the generosity and hard work of its supporters; Water Babies and their clients have supported Tommy’s for 13 years helping us to pioneer research to make pregnancy and birth safer for mums and babies."

Lessons are taking place across the country and the charity is aiming to raise £100,000 to fund vital research.