SWIMMERS have reacted angrily after it was announced they will have to pay more at Leisure World.

The swimming pool and fitness centre is changing the way its concession scheme is run.

From January, My Leisure Card holders will no longer qualify for an automatic reduction for entry when they reach their 60th birthday.

They pay £2.80 to use the leisure pool, but this will now be increased to £4.20.

They will only get a cheaper rate if they qualify for certain benefits.

Soldiers, full-time students over 16, and people in receipt of some benefits will receive a concession.

Jacqui Hunns, 74, from West Bergholt, uses the pool twice a week.

She said: “I think getting rid of the concessions is absolutely appalling.

“It going up by £1.40 means it is just short of £10 for my swimming each week.

“I will now need to find considerably more money. I only go for half an hour and swim 20 lengths.”

Robert Needham, chairman for the Colchester branch of Age UK, said: “I think it is a backwards step.

“The move to remove these concessions for the over sixties is inexplicable.”

My Leisure Card is free to any Leisure World customer and allows them to pay less than non-card holders, book online and earn loyalty points.

Councillor Annie Feltham, responsible for communities and leisure services, said: “We want to make a positive difference by creating opportunities for those on low income and other recognised groups to get active, stay active and achieve more.

“Leisure World’s My Leisure Card concession scheme has been specifically designed to achieve this.

“To help people stay active, we offer a range of activities including the gym, fitness classes and swimming and supportive, highly-trained staff to help people achieve their goals.

“We value all our customers and feel this is a fairer approach.”

For more information, visit colchesterleisureworld.co.uk