STOPPING town pensioners the right to free swims at the Dolphin Centre was "utterly ludicrous," a Rubery councillor has claimed.

Leader of the opposition on Bromsgrove District Council, Cllr Peter McDonald (Lab-Waseley), is campaigning to reinstate the free swimming sessions at the School Drive centre for the over 60s.

The district council's ruling Tory group agreed to axe free swimming for pensioners in order to save around £12,000 earlier this year.

Instead they are set to introduce a pass for leisure, which will provide cut-price swimming to those on low incomes across the district.

"The Labour group and I are planning to put forward a motion next month to have the free swims at the Dolphin Centre reinstated," said Cllr McDonald.

"To take away that privilege was utterly ludicrous and all for a measly £12,000.

"They should find that money elsewhere, I think it is disgraceful," added Cllr McDonald.

He later said: "First they take away the right to free bus passes and now they have done this.

"What next?"

Bromsgrove Action Group for Older People has already expressed their concerns about the loss of the service.

Spokesman for the group, Tony Harris says they are also planning to take action against the council.

The Advertiser/Messenger has also received a wealth of letters from angry pensioners who would like to see their 'right' to a free swim reinstated.

Cllr McDonald has requested the matter is discussed at the full council meeting next month.