July 27, 2009
THOUSANDS TAKE PLUNGE FOR FREE IN SOUTH YORKSHIRE
YOUNG people and senior citizens in South Yorkshire have taken the plunge nearly 170,000 times thanks to the government’s £140m free swimming initiative.
Rotherham, Barnsley and Doncaster councils are among more than 250 local authorities backing the scheme, and offering free swimming to people aged under 16 and over 60.
It is part of a government drive to help get two million people more active by the time London hosts the Olympics in 2012.
Figures released today show that in the last three months, over 60s enjoyed 9,809 free pool visits in Rotherham while under 16s went more than 21,232 times. In Barnsley, there were 9,155 free swims by over 60s and 40,273 by under 16s. And in Doncaster, 16,135 visits were made by over 60s and 71,476 by under 16s. Sheffield Council are not taking part in the scheme.
Wentworth MP John Healey said: “Swimming provides a fun and accessible means of keeping fit and active and I am pleased to see so many people in Rotherham, Barnsley and Doncaster have taken advantage of it.
“I am glad that three of our local councils are demonstrating their commitment to the health and well-being of their local communities.”
THOUSANDS TAKE PLUNGE FOR FREE IN SOUTH YORKSHIRE
YOUNG people and senior citizens in South Yorkshire have taken the plunge nearly 170,000 times thanks to the government’s £140m free swimming initiative.
Rotherham, Barnsley and Doncaster councils are among more than 250 local authorities backing the scheme, and offering free swimming to people aged under 16 and over 60.
It is part of a government drive to help get two million people more active by the time London hosts the Olympics in 2012.
Figures released today show that in the last three months, over 60s enjoyed 9,809 free pool visits in Rotherham while under 16s went more than 21,232 times. In Barnsley, there were 9,155 free swims by over 60s and 40,273 by under 16s. And in Doncaster, 16,135 visits were made by over 60s and 71,476 by under 16s. Sheffield Council are not taking part in the scheme.
Wentworth MP John Healey said: “Swimming provides a fun and accessible means of keeping fit and active and I am pleased to see so many people in Rotherham, Barnsley and Doncaster have taken advantage of it.
“I am glad that three of our local councils are demonstrating their commitment to the health and well-being of their local communities.”