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Children joined with older residents from the Tendring area to
create a splash and help launch a new free swimming initiative.
Pupils from Walton Primary School took to the water with members
of the Active4Life group to celebrate the scheme.
It will mean from April 1, thousands of people - aged 60 and
over as well as those aged 16 and under - will get free sessions at
Tendring District Council's pools at Clacton, Dovercourt, Frinton
and Walton and Brightlingsea.
The Council successfully bid for Government money and has been
granted more than £180,000 to provide the scheme for the next two
years.
Eleanor Buxton, who goes to Walton Primary, said she thought it
was a great idea.
"It will be fun and will keep us fit and healthy," said the
ten-year-old, who is regular at the pool. "It will give us a good
future."
Pauline Edmonds, who was there to represent the 60 and overs
said the legacy was already in place with the Active 4Life Club
based at Clacton Leisure Centre.
"That started up in the 1990s and we now have 329 members," she
said. "To have this free swimming now is a real added bonus. It is
total exercise and good for those of us who might have aching
joints."
Mrs Edmonds said it was also an opportunity for people to meet
up socially and enjoy an activity together.
Pierre Oxley, TDC's Portfolio Holder for Leisure, also joined
the swimmers in the pool.
He thanked the Government for the money and North East Essex NHS
for backing the scheme.
"This is an excellent initiative all round which will bring a
lot of pleasure to many people," he said.
"It will help them to lead healthier and more active lifestyles
and I hope to be able to make a further announcement on this scheme
soon."
Cllr Oxley said that the site of the pool at Walton is in for a
revamp with improved changing rooms and a gym.
Helen Ford, a synchronised swimmer, also gave a demonstration of
her skills at the launch today.
Anyone from the age groups of 16 and under and 60 and over
wanting to make use of the free swimming during public sessions can
find out more information from the
free
swimming information page or pick up a form from one of the
Council's leisure centres.
They will need a valid ONE card to take part and these are also
available free of charge.
17/3/09 |