A SCHEME to provide free swimming throughout the summer has been hailed a success after thousands of people took up the offer.

Throughout the six-week summer holiday, families in Derwentside were offered free swimming sessions by the Try Five project.

In total, 10,700 sessions were taken up through the scheme, which was backed by the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund and organised in partnership with Sure Start.

Physical activity co-ordinator Claire Hugill said: "The scheme was an overwhelming success and it was fantastic to see so many people taking the opportunity to get active.

"We hope that this will motivate people to continue to be active in the future."

For more information on the Try Five Project, contact Gary Young, assistant physical activity co-ordinator, on 01207-218523