The Government's plan to give free swimming to the over-60's has been criticised and branded ‘poorly funded' by councils. Councils had until 15 September sign up for the scheme and many are angry that the Government has not offered enough cash to make it viable. Bournemouth and Poole BCs have voted not to take on the scheme, claiming they would have to make up a shortfall of £56,000 and £10,000 respectively in 2009/10, rising to £112,000 and £50,000 respectively from 2011/12 onwards – when Government funding would cease. Deputy leader of Bournemouth council, Cllr John Beesley, said: ‘The funding offered would only cover half the costs of offering free swimming to over-60s. We simply can't afford the additional £56,000 a year that this would cost the taxpayers of Bournemouth.' The Department of Culture Media and Sport claimed the funding would meet ‘the large majority' of the costs, and said councils would not be forced to enter into the scheme. Dorset CC and the local PCT offered districts £100,000 to make up shortfalls. However, Christchurch BC and Weymouth and Portland BC declined.