From 1 April 2009, 16s and under and over 60s have been able to swim for free in Elmbridge. To date, over 7000 people have registered with the scheme, which is due to run to at least 31 March 2011.

If you are aged 60 and over, or 16 and under, you can swim at either the Elmbridge Xcel Leisure Complex in Walton, or The Hurst Pool in West Molesey, as many times as you like (during public swimming sessions) free of charge.

This is possible because Elmbridge Borough Council, in partnership with DC Leisure, is taking part in a Government programme that offers subsidies to those local authorities that agree to provide free swimming for the above age groups. It is due to run for at least two years, but is part of the wider Government intention of offering free swimming for everybody by 2012.

Everyone eligible for the scheme will be required to complete an application form to register and proof of age must be shown in most cases before the first swim. A membership card will be issued and must be shown on every visit, otherwise the full rate may be charged.

Free Swimming Registration Fee - DC Leisure charges a nominal fee of £2 per person towards the costs of administering all new Free Swimming Memberships. This charge will be levied at the till for each new swimmer. This is a one-off fee which registers the eligible applicant for two years of free swimming at both Elmbridge Xcel and The Hurst Pool.

Please note that the Free Swimming Initiative does not cover use of the Health Suite (Sauna, Steam Room and Spa) facilities.

You can pick up an application form from either the Elmbridge Xcel Leisure Complex, or The Hurst Pool. You do not need to be a resident of Elmbridge to qualify for free swimming, as it is based on non-residency criteria.

|The form can also be downloaded here

For more details, please contact Elmbridge Xcel on 01932 260300, or The Hurst Pool on 0208 941 6544.