SEMILONG.info

The central Government initiative that gives all under sixteens and over sixties the chance to swim for free during public sessions has continued to be a roaring success into its third quarter, now moving ahead of Milton Keynes. The latest report on the scheme shows that there have been 104,564 free swims taken in the nine months that the scheme has been running.

The national position for under sixteen and over sixty swims has improved two places on the last quarter to twenty-sixth out of 254 participating local authorities. Ranking above large cities like Manchester, Liverpool and Newcastle illustrates that the take up by the people of Northampton is outstanding in terms of population and number of pools.

Northampton Borough Council, with its three pools at Danes Camp, Lings Forum and Mounts Baths, is ranked as the highest non-Metropolitan District council in the country for under sixteen’s free swim attendance. The town maintains its position in second place within the East Midlands region after Leicester City Council and is twentieth in the full table.

Under sixteens and over sixties in Northampton just need a Free Swimming Initiative Card or a Leisure Card to benefit from the initiative. The Free Swimming Initiative Card is £2 for over sixties and under sixteens whilst Leisure Cards are £6.50 a year but also allow customers to take advantage of discounts on using other activities and facilities. Forms and further information can be obtained from any council leisure centre reception or online at www.nleisure.co.uk

Cllr Paul Varnsverry, who is responsible for leisure services, commented: “I’m absolutely over the moon we have hit the magical 100,000 mark in the free swimming scheme because it shows people are continuing to enjoy the borough council’s three superb facilities. The Government scheme is a huge incentive for younger and older generations to have fun and keep fit in the water and the figures show it isn’t a short term trend in Northampton.

“The three leisure centre pools have been very popular with youngsters during the school holidays again and I hope anybody who hasn’t yet taken advantage of the free swimming will pick up a user card and session programme in time for the Easter break.”

Because all under sixteens can benefit from free swims, now is the time for parents to encourage their children to learn to swim safely. Contact the Trilogy Swim School on 01604 838333 to check availability on the 16 week terms that follow the ten-step National Teaching Plan.

Semilongs nearest pool is the Mounts and is the largest public pool in the town.