Students across Northumberland will now be able to keep fit for less this summer thanks to the introduction of a new weekly pass. The pass comes as Northumberland's Conservative administration seek to address years of neglect of the county's leisure services under the previous administration. Students were priced out of being able to afford gym use out of term time because of expensive and restrictive contract arrangements.

Active Northumberland has created the Student Summer Pass enabling full-time students over 16 to get seven days of access to leisure centres, swimming pools, gyms and fitness classes for just £8.

The new scheme comes into operation today Friday, June 1 until September 2 and is available online via the Active Northumberland website or app.

The scheme will apply across Northumberland and is believed to be the first of its type tried by Active Northumberland.

Conservative councillor Cath Homer, Northumberland County Council portfolio holder for Culture, Arts, Tourism and Leisure, praised the scheme as a real boost for students during the summer.

“Many young people across Northumberland will be looking to keep fit or even start a new fitness regime this summer and this scheme is the ideal way to help them,” she said.

“Keeping fit and healthy is not just a huge benefit to an individual, but also their family and friends and the economy and well-being of our county. Students were previously priced out of Active Northumberland services because they could only gain access through pay as you go or with a monthly contract.

“We believe this offer of just £8 for seven days of fitness is a very good price and we would like to see as many people as possible take it up. It should enable students to access leisure services out of term times.

“We understand keeping fit can sometimes be a costly experience but we hope this scheme can help change young people’s lives for the better.”