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More than 4,200 people have taken advantage of free swimming available at Haverhill Leisure Centre over the last six months.

Casual swimming is available free for all those aged 16 or under and the over 60s for just a £2 registration fee until 2011 as part of a Government-funded initiative to entice people back to the pool.

Swimmers still have a chance to register for the scheme which will be running for another year and a half.

Swimming is widely considered by health experts to provide an excellent cardiovascular workout. It also tones, strengthens your heart muscles, and improves the delivery of oxygen to the different parts of the body.

The Leisure Centre is also running a series of free six-week swimming lessons for youngsters aged 11 to 16 and for the over 60s who are beginners or inexperienced swimmers.

The next course for those over 60s runs from January 11 to February 15 every Monday from 1.30pm to 2.30pm. The next 11 to 16s course starts on Sunday, February 27, at 10am and will include free entry to the Wet n Wild swim session.

Michelina Parioti, 70, from Haverhill, said: “I heard about the free lessons on a visit to the gym and was hesitant at first because I had previously had a knee replacement.

"I did the free six week course in August and enjoyed it so much that I then paid for further lessons. My instructor Mary was brilliant and the lessons have given me lots of self-confidence, plus my GP thinks it’s great.”

Kusum Karunadasa, 74, and Don Karunadasa, 71, from Linton, had never learnt to swim until now. They also took advantage of the free swimming lessons.

Don said: “We did feel a bit shy at first because we were both non-swimmers but once you get into the water and get started that all goes away. We have seen a definite improvement in our health and it really doesn't matter if you are young or old you can always learn new skills.”

In addition to the free swimming lessons, a Swim Buddy scheme has started at the centre with a swimming instructor available at the poolside to offer help and support to those wanting technique advice during public swimming times on Monday between 2.30pm and 3.30pm, Thursdays between 1.30pm and 3pm and Sundays between 3pm and 4pm.

There’s also a free 12-week course for those with disabilities, starting on January 8 from 10.45am to 11.45am in conjunction with the Centre’s Big Splash disability swimming sessions in partnership with Optua Leisure. The first course will be for those who are semi-independent and will require minimum carer support in the water.

Dominic Greenwood, general manager at Haverhill Leisure Centre, said: “We have been delighted by the response to our free swimming scheme and hope that more people in the Haverhill area will take advantage of free swimming, free lessons, and poolside instructors in the coming months.

"Swimming is not only fun but a healthy and relaxing activity which is also excellent for those returning to exercise after a break because of ill-health or inactivity.”

If you are under 16 or over 60 then you can join the free swimming scheme by telephoning 01440 702548 or visit the Haverhill Leisure Centre for an application form. Registration is £2. Also telephone or visit the centre for further details on the free swimming courses. Visit www.acleisure.com for more information.