Strict new rules are being drawn up that could allow swimming pools in England to reopen next month.

The rules would include half of the lanes in each pool closed, along with all changing rooms, and a ban on children who don't have pre-booked lessons.

The rules are reported to be under construction and will be published on June 15 ahead of a July reopening.

Jane Nickerson, chief executive of Swim England, told the Sunday Times: "In the early days, it may be that you are encouraged not to use the changing rooms. What we're suggesting is going 'beach-ready'.

"Some pools might ask you just to put on a towelling robe and - let's hope you're not on a bus, you're in a car - travel home like that".

Children would only be able to go to a pool if they have a lesson pre-booked and people may be told to change by the pool and put their valuables in a bag inside a locker.

Ms Nickerson added: "It doesn't mean that we couldn't do...lessons, or some club and community activity - as long as they are programmed and maintaining a distance."

Swimmers will also have to adhere to social distancing rules in the water.

A standard 25-metre pool will be modified so it has three lanes, rather than the normal six.

Under the proposals, this would mean 10 people to a lane, and 30 in the pool in total.

Ms Nickerson said: "It will be a much stricter regime...not standing at the end, but to keep swimming - and to keep five metres from the person in front of you.

"We are saying if you do need to stop for a rest, or catch your breath, just make sure you get to the edge of the lane, to allow others to turn, and keep your head away, face the wall."