Figures from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents reveal that at least 60 British nationals drown abroad each year.

Peter Cornall, RoSPA Water and Leisure Manager, said: 'About eight of the drownings each year involve children, most of whom die in swimming pools in and around the Mediterranean - the most popular holiday destination for Britons.' RoSPA says people should seek advice about safety before they book.

The charity is working with the European Child Safety Alliance, which is co-ordinating a water safety and drowning prevention campaign in Europe to raise awareness of the problem at home and abroad. Details: www.rospa.co.uk