Council sued after boy brain damaged

The father of a nine-year-old boy is suing a council for £150,000 after alleging his son suffered brain damage during a school swimming lesson.

George Leavers, from Towcester, Northamptonshire, is unable to walk or talk following the accident at Towcester Leisure Centre, Northamptonshire.

His father Edward Leavers claims Northamptonshire County Council was negligent and failed to provide the required level of supervision or care for his son.

George was taking part in a lesson organised by Nicholas Hawksmoor Primary School, Towcester, in July, 2002.

The High Court writ says that George suffered brain damage after being under water for "an extended period".

A spokesman for Northamptonshire County Council said: "We can confirm we have received a writ in relation to this incident, but we are unable to comment any further as legal proceedings are underway."