The majority of the UK population (84 per cent) live within 2 miles (3.2km) of a swimming pool, according to the 2011 State of the UK Swimming Industry report.

Published by The Leisure Database Company, the study has found that the public is able to choose from 4,674 pool facilities across more than 3,300 public and private sites. In the year to 31 March 2011, there was a decrease in the number of pool facilities at private health clubs. However, this was offset by a rise in provision and public sector venues.

The report has also revealed that the South East region has the most swimming facilities per geographic region, with Northern Ireland offering the least amount. Sport and Recreation Alliance chair Andy Reed said: "We know that swimming remains a massive participation sport and activity, but we still need to grow the market and the numbers participating regularly.

"Reports suggest that latent demand for swimming remains high so providing this kind of detailed information can help us all plan to meet this growth." David Minton, director of The Leisure Database Company, added: "Swimming's popularity will only be heightened with the 2012 Olympics and we need to ask whether we have the facilities and programmes for a true Olympic legacy."

Details: The 2011 State of the UK Swimming Industry report Image: Benis Arapovic/shutterstock.com