Just a note to say a big thank you to Carole. I'm unlikely to be able to make future lessons and if you fancy learning, be it from complete novice to improving an already slick style I couldn't recommend her enough.
When I started (having not tried swimming since I was about 10) I did a sort of delayed drowning and wanted to keep my head out the water, due to the fact it felt like I was drowning as soon as I dipped my face in and the water came over my ears.
I'm no Phelps now but can happily stroke a few lengths safe in the knowledge that I can happily go up and down merrily on my way. I still haven't got the hang of the breathing and have to "Stevie Wonder" a bit to take a bigger gulp of air before sticking my head in again for 4 or 5 strokes. Perhaps practice will enable me to get the hang of the 3 stroke breathing but I'm not fussed if I don't.
Well worth going for a lesson or more if you're curious, and can do a Thursday evening. PM Snoop and I'm sure he'll pass on your details to Carole (AKA Mrs. Snoop).