Take-up at Bury Leisure pools of the Government’s nationwide £140m free swimming scheme is the best in Greater Manchester and one of the highest in the UK.

Since the beginning of the scheme more than 20,000 juniors and over 5,000 adults have registered for the free swimming scheme and in the first six months almost 90,000 free swims, split between 68,000 swims for 16’s or under and 20,600 for 60’s or over, were taken-up. 

The Government and Bury Council funded scheme is being delivered by Bury Leisure at Castle Leisure Centre, Radcliffe Pool and Ramsbottom Pool up to 31 March 2011.  Set up by the Department for Culture Media and Sport the scheme aims to get people more active and enjoying swimming on the run-up to the 2012 Olympics. 

The free swimming scheme is available to everyone aged 16 or under or aged 60 or over and is also supported by Change4Life.

Councillor Beverly Sullivan, Executive Member for Health and Wellbeing said “The results show that free swimming is a great bonus and that as a sport swimming is very popular.  It is really pleasing that so many people are taking advantage of the scheme which promotes healthy living and supports our ambition for Bury to be the healthiest borough in the North West.” 
 
Neil Long Assistant Director for Leisure Services said "This level of take-up in the first six months is fantastic news and proves that offering free swimming sessions has inspired more people to take regular exercise more often.  Swimming is a great form of exercise, not only does it help to tone the body, improve muscle strength, posture and flexibility it can also reduce blood pressure and contribute to losing weight.  I hope the free swimming scheme continues to encourage people to take advantage of Bury Leisure sports facilities.”

In addition to the free swimming scheme, Bury Leisure offer a comprehensive learn to swim programme, free lessons to residents aged 50 or over and a variety of other water-based sports such as diving, snorkelling and learning lifesaving techniques. 

To register for free swimming or check pool timetables go to www.bury.gov.uk/freeswimming, phone 0161 253 6513 or visit Castle Leisure Centre, Radcliffe Pool or Ramsbottom Pool.