Older swimmers at a Barnet leisure centre were hit by a shock price hike due to an “admin error”.

People eligible for an older person’s discount at Copthall Leisure Centre were charged £4.35 when paying for their early morning swim on Monday, August 12.

That is 50 per cent more than the normal, reduced rate of £2.90

Linda Sansom, who lives in Parkside, Finchley, said she was told by a member of staff that she would have to pay £4.35 for the early morning swim sessions, but if she swam between 9am and 5pm she could continue to pay the reduced rate.

She added neither she nor any of the others affected had been warned of a price rise.

Ms Sansom said: “I am not working any more, but it doesn’t suit me to swim at those times as I have other commitments.”

Better, the not-for-profit group that runs the borough’s leisure centres under contract for Barnet Council, said the price hike was the result of an admin error.

A spokesperson for Better said: “We very much want to support our older customers to get active, so we are honouring concessionary entry for them during peak periods for the time being.

“We’ve spoken to a small number of people affected by an admin error and believe no one is due a refund because of the swift action staff took to give customers the concessionary rate.

“Centre management are happy to help with any queries.”

Copthall Leisure Centre, in Champions Way, Hendon, is currently undergoing an extensive redevelopment thanks to a £41.5 million investment in new facilities by the council.

The new centre will feature a learner pool, community pool, competition pool, café, sports hall, group exercise studios, health and fitness suite and three health improvement rooms.

It is due for completion this summer.

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