A keep fit class teaching mums to push prams while rollerskating has been accused of putting toddlers' lives at risk.

During the £10 sessions, coming to Brighton in two weeks, parents are encouraged to develop their skating stride, stopping, and turning skills - all with their child and buggy.

Child care practitioner Lesley-Anne Brennan said Mummy Buggy Skate was dangerous and should be investigated by social services.

The company behind the exercise classes said children's safety was a priority.

But Mrs Brennan, who has worked with youngsters for more than 25 years, said: "I am concerned for the health and safety of the children in the buggies and feel they should in no way be put at risk by irresponsible activities like this.

"What happens if the person pushing them falls down? The buggy will automatically be turned over with the child in it.

"If the child is not strapped in, it will fall out. It could hit its head and could even be killed."

She was outraged when she saw a leaflet advertising the group in a cafe.

Mrs Brennan, of Trafalgar Close, Peacehaven, thought the emphasis being put on beginners' participation was especially "naive".

The 59-year-old, who looks after five children at her home, added: "The whole thing is preposterous. The children aren't benefiting from this, it's all done for the benefit of the adults.

"I think people consider the health and safety of their pets more than children sometimes. I do feel this is foolish and dangerous.

"Why do the two things need to be done together? If parents want to rollerskate they should do it separately."

Skatefresh, which runs skating classes in London and Brighton, starts Mummy Buggy Skate at the promenade near West Pier on April 27.

Matt Taylor, a Skatefresh instructor, said the company took heath and safety seriously.

Beginners are required to do their first classes with an empty pushchair.

Mr Taylor said: "The reason for doing this is all about the safety of the child. No child will be in the pushchair during basic training.

"We will make a decision about when the child is allowed in the pushchair based on the competency of the adult at skating."

Weekly classes are taught by instructors approved by the International Inline Skating Association.

Skatefresh trialled Mummy Buggy Skate in London and works with the Royal Parks to make sure people are safe skaters.

Mr Taylor added: "I understand the basis of these concerns but I don't think they're warranted.

"Skating is a wonderful low impact activity which lots of mums enjoy."

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