From 1st June 2008 all over 60s in Manchester will be eligible for free swimming in Manchester's pools including the flagship ManchesterAquatics Centre.

Manchester City Council is the first  city in England to offer such a comprehensive package for the over 60s.  The overall aim of the Manchester scheme is to increase the number of people over 60 in the City who swim regularly as part of the Healthy Ageing Strategy.

The scheme will start on 1st June 2008 and run initially for one yearand will  include access to all Manchester pools including the Aquatic Centre and the Forum.  A full assessment of the impact of the scheme will be undertaken

Councillor Mike Kane, executive member for arts and leisure said:"Nationally this is a first for Manchester.  With the 9th FINA World Swimming Championships looming, Manchester's Valuing Older People Programme, Manchester Primary Care Trust and Manchester Leisure have joined forces to reach an agreement to  provide funding for free swimming for people aged 60 or over.  Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise and in Manchester we are lucky enough to have some state of the art pools."

Councillor Val Stevens, deputy leader and executive member for valuing older people added: "This is a great idea – Manchester Labour as delivered again.  I would encourage all residents over 60 to apply for their free pass, get down to their local pool and start enjoying the many health and social benefits of swimming."