Around 2,000 youngsters have taken part in free swimming sessions in Cannock and Rugeley during the summer holidays so far, exceeding all expectations.

Since the scheme was launched two weeks ago, Chase Leisure Centre has given away 1,493 free swims to under-16s, while 453 were sessions were taken up by youngsters at Rugeley Leisure Centre since opening on July 30. Due to the success, sessions have been extended and are now available at Chase Leisure Centre from 8.30am until midday and from 2pm to 5pm weekdays.

Rugeley sessions will include Monday, 11am to midday and 2pm to 4pm; Tuesday, 11am to 3.30pm; Wednesday, 11am to midday and 2pm to 3pm; Thursday, 11am to 2pm and 4pm to 5pm; Friday, 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 3pm.

On Saturdays, Chase Leisure Centre offers under 16s free swim from 8.30am to 4pm and Rugeley’s Saturday sessions will be between 10am and 3pm.

On Sundays, the sessions will be from 8.30am to 4pm at Chase and from 10am to 4pm at Rugeley.

Cannock Chase Council’s children and young people leader Neil Stanley said: “This scheme has been extremely successful – even more so than anyone predicted.

“Young people in the district have been able to access our swimming facilities for free and many have been making the most of it.

“This initiative has been made possible; thanks to the funds and commitment between the local strategic partnership, South Staffordshire Primary Care Trust and Cannock Chase Council, and compliments the already established free tennis scheme available across the district.”

Anyone wanting to take advantage of the swimming offer will need to register and will be issued with a membership card.

Registration forms are available from either leisure centre.