50,000 youngsters take advantage of Dudley's free swimming scheme
More than 50,000 young people have taken advantage of a free swimming initiative at Dudley's leisure centre since the scheme was introduced, it has been revealed.
It comes as the increasingly popular scheme will return to Dudley, Halesowen and Crystal leisure centres during the October half-term week.
Dudley Council introduced the scheme last July in a bid to encourage youngsters to stay active, keep fit and help beat boredom during school breaks.
The authority has now revealed there have been 55,778 visits to the three centres since July 2018.
Children who live in the borough from babies up until 16 years old are eligible to swim for free during public swimming times.
Councillor Ruth Buttery, cabinet member for children and young people, said: "I am absolutely delighted that the free swimming scheme has proved so popular with the young people in our borough.
"To have clocked up more than 50,000 visits since last summer is amazing.
"I would urge young people to continue taking advantage of the offer over the half-term break."
To register for the free swimming initiative, visit www.freeswimindudley.co.uk
