FUNDS given by a Kidderminster councillor will help make a splash to provide free swimming lessons to over-50s in the town.

The Wyre Forest Glades Leisure Centre, in Bromsgrove Street, has received funds from Conservative councillor Anne Hingley, in her role as a Worcestershire county councillor, using her county divisional funding.

The money will help support free swimming lessons for people aged 50 or over. Mrs Hingley, who is also Wyre Forest District Council cabinet member for health, wellbeing and housing said: “It gives me great pleasure to support this initiative. Getting elderly people within the district more active is important to me.”

Swimming instructor Vanessa Babington added: “I am proud of all my swimmers – their confidence has grown immensely.”

Class member Meg Kent, 63, said: “I have been afraid of the water from a very early age. These sessions have inspired me to attempt to conquer my fear.”