FREE swimming for the over 60s in Epping Forest has been scrapped.

The scheme – introduced in April last year – will come to an end on Sunday, August 1 after the Government decided to stop funding the concession at pools in Loughton, Ongar and Waltham Abbey as part of efforts to cut the nation's deficit.

But some swimmers in the region have urged the district council to follow the example of a handful of other local authorities, which have said they will continue to fund it themselves.

Maureen Insole, 67, of Buckhurst Way in Buckhurst Hill, said: “I used to swim twice, sometimes three times a week at Loughton pool but now I probably won't go as often.

“I think it's unfair when other councils like Tower Hamlets are continuing with it. It could put off some people who are less well-off.”

The district council says it simply cannot afford it, but some have urged the authority to re-examine its spending priorities.

Terry Hutt, chairman of the Waltham Abbey Pensioners Action Group, said: “This is a bad day for pensioners.

“Swimming is so important as it not only is enjoyable and good for your health but it brings people together socially.

“If other councils can afford it why can't Essex? I worked at Enfield Council for 25 years so I know how much councils waste. I'm sure if they cut wastage they could find the money.

"Pensioners should be the council's top priority, they've done their work over the years but instead they're falling victim to all these cuts.”

Sue Whitehead, secretary of the Epping Forest District Swimming Club, said: “I feel very sorry for the general public because this will not help encourage mass participation of the sport.”

The district council's portfolio holder for leisure, Cllr Brian Rolfe, said: “The Government has made it clear that there will be many cuts across public services. The end of free swimming for the over 60s is disappointing but not completely unexpected.

“The government and every local authority will need to look very hard at its priorities in the coming months. Sadly, free swimming is a service the country can no longer afford.”

A spokesman for the district council said the same free swimming would cost taxpayers at least £80,000 a year to fund, and that reduced rates of £2.10 for non-members and £1.90 for members over 60 were being introduced instead.

Sports and Olympic minister Hugh Robertson said: "This is not a decision that gives me any pleasure.

“However, the research shows that the great majority of free swimmers were swimming already, and would have paid to swim anyway.

“With a crippling deficit to tackle and tough decisions to take, this has become a luxury we can no longer afford."