It's time to slap on the cozzies as Croydon Council have announced its plans for free swimming in Croydon.

For the fourth summer in a row, under-16s will be able to swim for free at council's leisure centres.

"It’s a great way to enjoy the summer holidays and I’m really proud that we are able to do this again in such difficult times,” Councillor Timothy Godfrey said.

The free swim period will begin on Monday, July 24 and run until Tuesday, September 5.

Alongside swimming for those already proficient in the water there will be beginners’ crash courses to get novices started and confident. Centres will also offer a range of fun and fitness activities, including inflatable sessions, junior gyms, trampolining, water polo, football, and basketball.

Membership cards for the free swims can be picked up from the centres at South Norwood, New Addington, Waddon, Thornton Heath, and Purley. Anyone who is resident in the borough or attends school here is eligible.

Parents or guardians should complete the form and pay a £2 one-off admin fee, after which members can swim for free as many times as they like.

Membership cards need to be shown at every visit for free swimming, and lost cards can be replaced for £3.