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Press Release

The ASA ‘disappointed’ but realistic over decision to cut Free Swimming

17 June 2010

The ASA has expressed its disappointment that Free Swimming will stop shortly but acknowledges tough funding decisions have to be made by government.

The Department of Culture, Media and Sport have today, Thursday 17th June, announced Free Swimming for those aged 16 and under and over 60 will be cancelled as part of savings of around £73 million.

David Sparkes, the chief executive of the ASA, said: "While we are disappointed to learn that Free Swimming will stop shortly we recognise that in the current economic climate the government needs to prioritise its spending and in that regard we understand the decision."

Funding for free swims under the free swimming programme will end this summer.

Mr Sparkes added: "Free Swimming has brought many new people to swimming and has helped to drive up significantly attendances in pools and has made an impact to the activity target. We will now work with Local Authorities, Primary Care Trusts and pool operators to see how we retain these new customers and encourage more people to swim.

"We have learnt a lot from the Free Swimming initiative and we will now be seeking urgent meetings with both Sport England and the Dept of Health to see how we can build on the legacy from Free Swimming to continue to grow swimming and encourage more people to be more active.

"Swimming remains the number one participation sport and also remains the one activity people will consider as they step up their activity levels.

"Swimming can and will continue to work with government to ensure that there is a lasting legacy from this programme and we contribute significantly towards the target of 1,000,000 more people more active in sport as a legacy from the Olympic and Paralympic Games."



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