Get in the swim — free!

FREE lessons are going swimmingly for young people at Oldham’s pools.

Some sessions at Oldham pool were fully booked within days as people aged from 16 to 25 take advantage of the no-cost way to learn to swim.

The scheme, an initiative of Oldham Council and Oldham Community Leisure, started last week and is open to anyone aged 16 to 25, living in Oldham.

Although tuition is free, people must register to take part by phoning the free swimming lessons hotline on 0161-621 3340 or by calling at their nearest pool.

Oldham, Shaw and Saddleworth pools are already taking part, and Glodwick, Failsworth and Royton will start free lessons after the school holidays on September 7.

On successful completion of the course, swimmers get a six-month pass for reduced price admission to public swimming sessions at all six pools.

Councillor John McCann, cabinet member for community services and housing, said: “I am delighted that take-up of this initiative has been so positive.

“Being able to swim is a very valuable life skill that is also an excellent way to keep fit.

“There are still places available and I would urge anyone who meets the criteria to take advantage of this excellent opportunity.”