MORE than 17,000 young people enjoyed free swimming during the summer holidays, thanks to a partnership between Middlesbrough Council and Middlesbrough Primary Care Trust (PCT).

Funded by the PCT, the swimming sessions were on offer at Acklam Sports Centre, Rainbow Leisure Centre and The Neptune Centre.

Following the scheme's success, the council plans to make free swimming available to young people during other school holidays.

"I am delighted that this initiative has really taken off this summer," said Councillor Barry Coppinger, executive member for community safety and leisure.

"We've now got to try to keep people coming along and taking part in this kind of healthy, family activity all year round."

Peter Kelly, executive director of public health for Teesside, said: "We are very pleased that so many under-16s took up this offer and we hope that the enjoyment they had will encourage them to go swimming more often and bring their friends and family."

For more information, contact Rainbow Leisure Centre, on 01642-592800, The Neptune, on 01642-230106, Acklam Sports Centre, on 01642-822357, or visit www.middlesbrough.gov.uk