ON a damp Bank Holiday afternoon, my children decided they would like to go swimming. After all, it does get a little boring staying in all day.

No problem, I thought - ring the baths and see what activities are available.

Shadsworth Leisure Centre - closed, Darwen Leisure Centre - no answer (presumably closed), Waves - open but an expensive £2.10 per child. With three children to take, I thought this rather too dear for an hour or so of entertainment.

I found it hard to believe that Waves was the only option available to me within the Blackburn with Darwen borough.

I then rang Hyndburn Leisure Centre which was running a playscheme from 3 to 4.30pm for a £1.10 cover charge - a much fairer price.

I realise Waves Fun Centre has different things to offer, but I think Blackburn with Darwen Council are making a big mistake in not having a suitable alternative open for parents to decide what they can realistically afford.

Please think of your young citizens who are at home during school holidays and need affordable entertainment available.

K KEOGH (Mrs), Rydal Mount, Belthorn, Blackburn.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.