Elaine Doran tried to enrol Samuel, 8, on lessons at Hoyland Swimming Pool, saying she would go in the water with him as he needs one-to-one supervision.

Barnsley Premier Leisure, a charitable company that owns the pool, said it is against its policy to have parents in the water during lessons.

The Disability Rights Commission has taken up the case.

'Clear case'

Ms Doran said she hoped her son was ready for mainstream swimming lessons and was shocked at the response from the pool.

She said: "Samuel has no behavioural problems and the only difference to any other eight-year-old starting mainstream lessons is that I would need to go in the water with him until he became familiar with the new environment."

The family's solicitor Pam Kenworthy said: "This seems to be a very clear case of discrimination against Samuel."

A spokesman for Barnsley Premier Leisure said: "We must adhere with the national guidelines, set by the Institute of Sport and Recreation Management, and the Amateur Swimming Association, which apply to all leisure centres that operate swimming lessons.

"They clearly indicate that parents are not allowed to participate in mainstream lessons."