Over 60s dive in for free swimming
Public swimming pools in the Lancaster district will open their doors free of charge to people aged 60 and over from April 1 as part of the Government’s Swim4life initiative.
Public swimming pools in the Lancaster district will open their doors free of charge to people aged 60 and over from April 1 as part of the Government’s Swim4life initiative.
The campaign, linked to the nationwide Change4Life campaign, aims to get people to lead more active, healthy lives.
Free access will be available at any public casual swimming sessions at Lancaster City Council’s Salt Ayre Sports Centre and the community swimming pools in Heysham, Hornby and Carnforth.
Coun Jane Fletcher, Cabinet member with responsibility for sport, said: “Swimming is one of the most popular ways for people in this country to keep fit. Your body works harder in the water, so 30 minutes in the pool is worth 45 minutes activity on dry land. This is a great way of staying healthy, however good a swimmer you are. And because it’s low impact, it’s great for people who have problems with their joints or find exercise difficult.”
Lancaster is one of almost 300 local authorities across England to take part in the Government’s free swimming scheme.
To access the scheme, customers will first need to register at any of the swimming pools by completing a short form and by providing proof of their eligibility. A passport, the Lancashire Now Transport Card, driving licence, pension book or birth certificate are all acceptable forms of identification.
As the scheme is sure to prove popular, the city council is encouraging customers to pre-register for a personal swipe card prior to April 1. All four swimming facilities will be offering pre-registrations from Wednesday March 18.
Rebecca Adlington, swimming’s double Olympic gold medallist, added: “I’m backing the free swimming initiative because it’s a great way to encourage more people into the pool. No matter what your age, swimming is an amazing sport and a great way to stay fit and healthy."
* For information on the opening times of the swimming pools please visit www.lancaster.gov.uk/leisureinfo.
Cultural Services is just one of a wide range of services provided to you by Lancaster City Council. These services would not be possible without the support of the £3.52 which, on average, you pay in council tax to Lancaster City Council . For more information on the council's services visit www.lancaster.gov.uk/makingeverypennycount
Date Updated: 19/03/09