NEARLY 170,000 free swims have been enjoyed in the first six months of a council initiative.

Durham County Council made swimming at its ten public pools free for anyone under 19 or 60 plus in April.

Since then, 60,000 people have registered and there have been nearly 170,000 free swimming sessions enjoyed.

Christine Gott, 63, from Stanley, who swims with her three-year-old grandson Ben, said: "I think it’s a great scheme, especially for families on low income.

"It’s definitely encouraged me and my family to come more often."

Steve Howell, the council’s head of sport and leisure, said: "It’s really rewarding to see that so many people have taken us up on the free swimming offer."