THEY made a big splash in the battle against flab.

Youngsters joined Olympians Mel Marshall and Adam Whitehead as they took to the pool for two water sports training sessions in Southampton.

The former Team GB stars were at The Quays swimming and diving complex in Harbour Parade for the Decathlon Big Summer Splash.

On Saturday this included the chance to try out water polo, rescue swimming and other water sports and the chance to race the two superstars.

They also learned basic first aid, including CPR.

Sunday saw the Speedo Swim Tour and Get Speedo Fit initiative – when Adam taught over-16s and adults how to hone their speed, strength, technique and power.

Participants tried out training aids from the new Speedo Swim fitness range such as snorkels, flippers and kickboards.

Sportswear retailer Decathlon organised the event with swimwear supremos Speedo in partnership with the Daily Echo.

Both are supporting The Daily Echo Staying Alive campaign – urging people to get active.

Our initiative – to encourage people to take up new sports and activities – was launched after a report showed that 13,000 people in Hampshire died prematurely from the four deadly killers of cancer, heart disease and stroke, and lung disease and liver disease between 2009 and 2011.

Chris Allan, manager of Decathlon’s Southampton branch, said: “The day went really well and we have had a lot of positive feedback.

“It is about allowing the kids the opportunity to get involved in sports, getting them in the pool to promote activity and reduce the risk of obesity. But it was also about promoting the sport of swimming and if they like it they can maybe join a local team. He added: “The coaches were also really involved and really enthusiastic with the kids, hyping them up.”