Free swims take a dive

Free swimming for young people and the over-60s in Newark and Sherwood ends in just over a week.

Government support for free swimming schemes across the country was withdrawn from July 31 as part of budget cuts.

In 2008, under the previous government, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport announced a £140m package of support for councils to introduce free swimming for people aged 16 and under and 60 and over.

The scheme was expected to run from April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2011 as part of a national initiative to encourage people to take up swimming in the lead-up to the 2012 London Olympics.

Despite withdrawal of money for the scheme Newark and Sherwood District Council’s cabinet decided to continue to provide free swimming throughout the summer.

Charges will be reintroduced on September 6.

Until then, free swimming for those who qualify is available at the Grove Leisure Centre, Balderton, Dukeries Leisure Centre, Ollerton, and at Southwell Leisure Centre, which is managed by a charitable trust.

The council’s cabinet member for leisure and culture, Mr Roger Jackson, said: “By waiting until the end of the summer holidays to reintroduce charges, it has meant families in the district could still enjoy free swimming during the school holiday period.

“I would encourage as many people as possible to enjoy the last few days of this extended offer. Swimming is fabulous exercise that all the family can do together.”

From September 6 customers aged over 60 who hold an Active card, the council’s discount card offering benefits at leisure facilities, museums, theatres and local events, will receive a 10% discount, making the cost of an adult swim £2.80.

Those on lower incomes or with additional needs would be entitled to further discounts in line with the existing policies.

Junior swim (under-16s) charges will be re-introduced at £2.50 or £2.25 for Active card holders.