abstract: A free swimming scheme is helping older people in Wales to become more active, sports minister Alun Pugh has said. During a visit to a recreation centre in Bridgend, which has installed a 'hydro-gym' that helps older people to exercise in water without stressing joints or muscles, Mr Pugh said: 'The free swimming initiative plays an important part in achieving the ambitious targets that we have set ourselves to make Wales more active and healthier. By 2020 it is estimated that there will be almost the same number of people aged 60 and over as there will be in their twenties and thirties, so it is vital that we do as much as possible to promote good health in later life.'