Record number of youngsters dive into free swims scheme

Local children are turning out in force to enjoy free time in the pool, with 6,206 children under the age of 16 taking part in the first fifteen days of the scheme – an increase of 40% on last year’s figures for the same period.

The scheme operates on weekdays at Mill House Leisure Centre, with sessions running between 10am to 1.30pm until Friday 1 September, excluding Bank Holiday Monday (28 August).

Councillor Christopher Akers-Belcher, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “We are delighted that our free swim and transport scheme continues to be a huge success.

“This year so far, 6,206 children have benefited from free swims with 2,892 children travelling on the free buses. We’ve also had many parents accompanying their children on the buses or making their own way to Mill House to swim with their children, which is very encouraging.

“Our free scheme enables local children to swim in a safe environment and gain confidence in the water, and is just one of many Council initiatives to encourage our residents to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

“The summer holidays are already half way through, so we would urge all youngsters across Hartlepool to take advantage of the free scheme before time runs out.”

Priority is given to children travelling on the free buses but children not on buses can access free swims until the last admission at 1.30pm.

Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Parents can accompany children on the buses for free, but a charge for swimming applies.

More information can be found at www.gethartlepoolactive.co.uk, while a leaflet with full details and bus timetables can be obtained from the Civic Centre and all leisure centres and libraries. The leaflet can be accessed here.