Labour Spokesman Condemns Decision To Axe Free Swimming (From Crewe Guardian)

Labour Spokesman Condemns Decision To Axe Free Swimming

8:56am Thursday 29th July 2010 in

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A DECISION to axe a free swimming scheme for youngsters has been condemned by Crewe and Nantwich Labour spokesman David Williams.

Mr Williams, who was the local Labour candidate in the General Election, has hit out at the coalition government’s decision to abolish the scheme for under 16s and over 60s..

He said: “It has long been recognised that swimming is one of the most effective exercises as it provides an effective work-out for the whole of the body, improving health, fitness and stamina.

“Quite apart from the obvious benefits to individuals, there is a financial benefit, as a fitter, healthier population will put less and less strain on the NHS in future years.

“The ConDem Government, in its mad dash to cut public spending is overlooking the fact that money spent in improving the nation’s health will be more than paid back in savings in the NHS.

“Swimming is rarely a solitary exercise. It involves family and friends and encourages a positive social involvement that may lead to new friends and new activities.

“Lots of families cannot afford to go swimming regularly as a family due to the cost.

“Many of the younger children who did go swimming at no charge were accompanied by at least one adult who did pay.

“That income is now likely to be lost to Cheshire East Council as once again the cost of a family swim becomes too expensive for many.”

Nantwich mum Sarah Jayne Flaherty Mottershead and her daughter Megan, aged seven, have been regular swimmers at the local pool.

Sarah said: “Megan loves her swimming and because of the free swim scheme we have been able to go on a regular basis.

“When the free swimming for children stops it will cost £5.70p each time for me and Megan.

“And when Liam is old enough to come with us it will cost us £8 a time.”