6 April 2009, 09/69
60s and over can now benefit from free
swimming
Free swimming for West Lancashire residents aged 60 has now
started (1 April). West Lancashire Community Leisure Trust has
taken up the Government’s initiative to offer this fantastic health
opportunity to anyone 60 and over.
The scheme takes place at the two Council-owned pools at Nye
Bevan in Skelmersdale and Park Pool in Ormskirk. If you meet the
criteria all you need to do is register at one of the leisure
centres to take advantage of free swimming.
It is initially to run as a two-year pilot and the Government
has part-funded it, with the Trust contributing the rest of the
money.
Bill Lloyd, Chairman of the West Lancashire Community Leisure
Trust, said: "This is a really beneficial initiative for the older
generation. Not only is it a great money saver but a fantastic
health opportunity too. Swimming is such a great sport for people
to enjoy because you can go at your own pace and meet like-minded
people too. I’m sure that we’ll have lots register to take
part."
Cllr Andrew Fowler, Portfolio Holder for Community Services and
Health, said: "Everybody is feeling the effects of the credit
crunch but don’t let your health suffer because the Trust is
offering a variety of ways to stay fit and save money at the same
time. The Trust is committed to providing leisure opportunities for
all ages and will continue to encourage people to take up healthy,
affordable lifestyles."
The Trust would have liked to launch the free swimming for those
aged 16 and under but unfortunately has not been able to bridge the
gap in funding from the government to support this initiative. Had
the Council agreed to fund the £100,000 shortfall, this would have
meant an increase in Council Tax of between 1.5 to 2%. If full
funding can be found for this scheme, then we would be happy to
support it.
For more information visit our sports centres and swimming pools
pages or www.westlancsleisure.com
(external link).
Alternatively, visit one of the five local centres at: Park
Pool, Park Road, Ormskirk (01695 576325); Nye Bevan Pool, Southway,
Skelmersdale (01695 727111); Burscough Fitness and Racquets Leisure
Centre, Bobby Langton Way, Burscough (01704 895266); Banks Leisure
Centre, Greaves Hall Avenue, Banks (01704 212970); Skelmersdale
Sports Centre, Digmoor Road, Skelmersdale (01695 723777).
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