It is all thanks to a £140 million Government initiative being run in partnership with local councils - including 38 in the East Midlands - to create a healthier, more active, nation and help get two million people more active by the time London hosts the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012.
The Government is investing £3.4 million in the next year to bring free swimming to the East Midlands - and more than £1 million has already been allocated to improve pools in the region. And there is the certainty of millions of pounds more to ensure free access for the two age groups, with councils being able to bid for further funding to modernise facilities over the next two years.
Andy Burnham, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, said:
"The excitement is building with just days to go and I hope young people - and those older in years, but still young at heart - are digging out their trunks and costumes, ready for 1 April. Free swimming will not only allow millions of people to reap so many health benefits, but ensure that local pools will be given a new lease of life at the heart of their communities.
"In these difficult economic times, it is great news that senior citizens can swim for free - and a real benefit too for children and, of course, their mums and dads.
"I commend councils of all political complexions who are working with us to make this exciting scheme a reality, often joining us in making a significant financial contribution to ensure its success. It is our hope that this is just the start and that in time free swimming becomes the norm across the country."
- In total 289 councils across England (81 per cent of the total) will be offering free swimming to the over 60s - 38 of them in the East Midlands.
- And across the country 206 local authorities (equivalent to 58 per cent) will also be providing it for children and young people who are 16 years of age or younger - 33 in the East Midlands.
- The initiative is guaranteed to run for at least two years - the period covered by the Government's current spending review.
- A full list of councils participating - and funding allocations - is available at the dcms website
Phil Hope, Regional Minister for the East Midlands, said:
"We want people across the East Midlands to take the plunge as part of our aim of creating a healthier and more active nation. Swimming is one of the most effective and enjoyable ways to stay healthy, and the opportunity to swim for free is one that I hope residents across the East Midlands will not miss out on. I look forward to see local pools and leisure centres becoming new hubs of the community from April and beyond."
See also on our website:
