CHILDREN with Down’s syndrome have been given a boost thanks to a donation from South East Water’s Community Chest Fund.

The Stepping Stones Down Syndrome Support Group was chosen by a panel of staff from the water company to receive £1,100 for the use of a hydro pool at Ravenswood Village, Crowthorne, for the kids to enjoy.

Vice-chairman Sarah Sutton said: “Swimming is a great way for children with Down Syndrome to stay active and develop co-ordination.

“They are also able to improve their body strength with the physical support and freedom of movement the water offers.

“Our parents and children benefit from having a warm and secure place to swim where they can meet and interact with people in a similar situation to them.” Ali Futcher, mother to four-year-old Lily, added: “South East Water’s donation means my daughter and the other children can continue to build their confidence with every session, while spending quality time with a member of their family and their new friends.

“It’s an increasingly popular activity and the financial support to maintain the sessions is greatly appreciated.” Rachel Lawson, internal communications officer at South East Water, who met the group and presented the cheque, said the donation would cover the hire of the pool for two sessions a month for a year. She said: “It was lovely to meet the families and see first-hand the real benefits the sessions in the hydro pool have on the children.” Stepping Stones Down Syndrome Support Group is run by parents, for parents and carers of children with Down syndrome in North Hampshire, Berkshire and Surrey.