Splashing around is great fun and now thanks to Labour, for under 16s and over 60s in many parts of the country it won’t cost a penny. Over 1000 swimming pools across England have taken up government funding so they can now offer free swimming for people under 16 and those aged 60 and over.

Olympian Mark Foster launched the national free swimming initiative, which is part of Labour’s promise to help get two million people more active by the time London hosts the Olympics and Paralympics in 2012.

Richard Angell, Chair of Young Labour said:

"This is no April Fools – in many parts of the country under 16s can now swim for free! This is an excellent scheme providing many young people with more to do, somewhere to go and an opportunity to stay healthy free of charge.

"Free swimming for under 16s is a real demonstration of Labour delivering for young people, extending opportunity and being on their side.

"This is a great scheme – it’s a pity that many Tory Councils aren't taking part in it, and in doing so will deny over 60s and under 16s in their areas the chance to swim for free."