OLYMPIC swimmer and Strictly Come Dancing star Mark Foster was in Harrow today to launch a new scheme to get more people in pools.

The former Commonwealth champion is keen to encourage healthier lifestyles and improved fitness – a process made easier with Harrow Council's latest plan.

Because, as of today, swimming across Harrow will be free for under 16s and over 60s thanks to new government plans.

Speaking at the launch Mr Foster said: "Ultimately life is a lot easier when you are fit and have a healthy lifestyle.

"Swimming, effectively, can save lives. It is the best form of exercise that doesn't bring with it the weight bearing injuries that you can get from other sports.

"For me, spiritually, I love the sound and the feel of the water and it just an easy way for people to improve their lives. Now with free swimming they have no excuse.

"If this kind of project produces the next Mark Foster, Rebecca Adlington or Duncan Goodhew then great, but at the moment it is about improving fitness and health."

Mr Foster was joined at the launch by Harrow Mayor, John Nickolay, leader of Harrow Council David Ashton and a host of other dignitaries.

Councillor Chris Mote (Con), responsible for community and cultural services also announced at the launch that Harrow has been given the funding for a new pool – to be opened in the next few years.

He said: "Making swimming free to over 60s and under 16s makes our pools far more accessible to an incredible 80,000 people in Harrow.

"This is a great way to deal with a host of issues in the borough like obesity and anti social behaviour in children and also fitness in the over 60s.

"I'm also delighted to announce that today it was announced that Harrow is set to benefit from a grant of nearly £1.8 million which will fund a new swimming pool in the borough."