OVER 60s in Cornwall are being invited to go to their local leisure centre to register for free swimming sessions being offered from yesterday (April 1) by Cornwall Council at local authority swimming pools — including Camelford, Laun­ceston and Bude.

The scheme is being subsidised by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport as the centrepiece of the government's plan to ensure a lasting sporting legacy from the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games. Over 60s are the first to benefit from the scheme in Cornwall.

Simon Blamey explain­ed: "We are delighted to be able to offer those over 60 the chance to improve their health and well being by participating in totally free of charge swimming sessions. However, in order to avoid queues we are inviting anyone who qualifies into their nearest local authority controlled leisure centre to pre register now. That way, everyone can enjoy free swimming during allotted sessions without having to wait."

For anyone over 60 who would like to take advantage of free swimming, the process is very easy. You will need to visit your nearest local authority owned leisure centre, fill in a registration form and prove your eligibility with your bus pass, passport, birth certificate or driving licence. You will then be issued with a registered user card.

Once registered, you will be able to access sessions that are designated 'general public swimming sessions' by showing your user card at participating pools.

Local authority pools in the 'Post' area, who will be participating in the scheme, are: Bude Leisure Centre, Camelford Leisure Centre and Phoenix Leisure Centre in Launceston.