Most people have accepted cuts have to be made. Many people have lost jobs, seen services axed and, so far, have managed to grin and bear it.

But today the Oxford Mail has learned the free swimming programme is set to suffer cuts.

The new plan will see over 60s paying £2.10 for a swim at city pools.

Under 17s who live within the city boundaries will still get to dive in for free.

The city council has reviewed the situation and points out that last year, under-17s made use of the free swims 44,000 times.

In contrast, about 31,000 swims were taken by pensioners.

The Government has also removed the £100,000 grant to fund the scheme.

Either way it was a well-used resource and it seems a shame someone will lose out.

The council says it will still be left out of pocket by the move. It is difficult to argue with the maths when people are losing their jobs.

But free swimming is key to helping both the young and old stay healthy.

It may be lost for now, but let’s us hope it can be reinstated soon.