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One in eight councils signed up for free swimming
By Tom Walker
A total of 82 per cent of local authorities in England have so far signed up to take part in the government's £140m free swimming scheme.
The initiative is a key part of plans to leave a lasting legacy from London 2012, giving people up and down the country more opportunities to get active.
In total, 291 councils are to offer free swimming to the over 60s while 211 (60 per cent) will open their pools for free to both the over 60s and those aged 16 and under.
The figures were announced by culture secretary Andy Burnham, who said: "Getting people more active is vital to the health of the nation and to tackling obesity.
"With 2012 approaching, now is the time for big ideas to help people make a change in their lifestyle. Swimming is fun and has universal appeal, and yet charges can deter people."
A total of 82 per cent of local authorities in England have so far signed up to take part in the government's £140m free swimming scheme.
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