Demand for free swimming sessions in Cannock Chase has proved so great that its two municipal pools are stretched to near breaking point.

The sessions were launched as part of a Government initiative.

Thousands of people have signed up to take advantage of free swimming in Cannock Chase district and demand is expected to increase over half-term.

Council leader Neil Stanley says it is a shame there is not the money available to build a third baths as Cannock Chase and Rugeley’s pools will struggle to cope if there is a rush.

Residents aged 60 and over and young people aged 16 and under can swim free of charge since April 1.

At the end of the first month, 3,845 youngsters aged 16 and under and 628 of those 60 and over had registered at Chase Leisure Centre in Cannock. In April, there had been 3,332 free sessions for 16s and under and 1,019 for 60s and over.

Rugeley Leisure Centre had 2,180 swimmers aged 16 and under and 374 of 60 and over registered the end of April. They took advantage of 2,764 and 452 free swims.

Councillor Stanley said: “If this continues we would need another swimming pool to cope.”

A survey carried out on Cannock baths two years ago gave it a three-year life span before £810,000 would need to be spent on it.