Free swimming sessions and warm spaces at regional pools

Northern, western and southern sites to host sessions from next week

Free swimming sessions will be available to children and those aged over 60 at regional pools from next week.

The Northern, Western and Southern pools will each hold sessions where children of primary school age, along with an adult, can attend for free.

A joint statement by the three facilities says the initiative, which is also open to those aged over sixty, will give access to warm spaces, physical activity and a hot shower at no cost.

It follows an announcement by the Department of Education, Sport and Culture to introduce a similar scheme at the NSC.

In the House of Keys this morning, Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Jason Moorhouse asked the education minister why the scheme was being launched after half term, when it's less likely pupils will make use of it.

Julie Edge argued the scheme has been done "the right way round":

The free sessions are available at the following times from 31 October until 31 March:

Mondays: 6pm - 7.30pm - Western Swimming Pool

Tuesdays: 5pm - 6.30pm - Northern Swimming Pool

Wednesdays: 5.30pm - 7pm - Northern Swimming Pool

Thursdays: 6pm - 7.30pm - Western Swimming Pool

Fridays: 6pm - 7.30pm - Northern Swimming Pool

Saturdays: 2.15pm - 4.15pm - Southern Swimming Pool