These two groups will be able to enjoy free swimming in Ashfield District council’s pools during the published public swim sessions.

The free swimming initiative is part of a national campaign to promote swimming, general fitness, more active lifestyles and well-being. In Hucknall and Sutton in Ashfield, the initiative is being promoted by Ashfield District Council in partnership with Sport and Leisure Management Ltd (SLM) – who manage council-owned leisure centres, sports centres and pools on behalf of the council.

Councillor Louise Bradshaw, Communities and Leisure Strategy portfolio holder says:

“Swimming is an excellent sport for all-round fitness and well-being. Offering free swimming is a real measure of our commitment to making a real difference to people’s lives. Our ambitious swimming strategy has paved the way for first-class swimming opportunities in the area and we are now well placed to deliver this free swimming initiative”.

To take up the free swim offer, everyone in these target age groups must have a valid Everyone Active activity card. The cards are free and are available from every Ashfield District Council leisure centres and pools. To get your free Everyone Active card either register at www.everyoneactive.com or visit your local swimming pool or leisure centre and collect an Everyone Active card application form, so that come April 1, 2009 you are able to make the most of this government-backed initiative.

It is estimated that many thousands of adults and children in the Ashfield area will be eligible for the free swims. The council has four pools – one at Edgewood Leisure Centre, one at Hucknall Leisure Centre and two at Lammas Leisure Centre. Public swim sessions vary from pool to pool and people are advised to check beforehand at your local pool or centre of visit www.everyoneactive.com and download the swimming pool timetable.